U.S.-citizen children affected
Parents of U.S.-citizen children detained or deported
These documented stories describe parents of U.S.-citizen children detained during traffic stops, workplace arrests, green-card interviews, and home raids, then held in facilities like Adelanto and McFarland or deported to countries including Mexico, Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Venezuela, sometimes separating them from infants or young children for months. Cases span 39 states, including Texas, California, Idaho, and Connecticut. First documented in January 2025, the pattern became recurring by February 2025, peaked by share in April 2025, and has remained a roughly steady share of reported cases since.
First documented Jan 2025, recurring since Feb 2025.
Share of each month's well-documented stories, Jan 2025 to Oct 2026. Volume is not shown: coverage grew over the record, shares did not have to.
291 stories in 39 states. What accompanies this practice →
“My daughter never leaves my side. It would be extremely detrimental to her, in every respect, if I were separated from her.”
Alabama
Arizona
Guillermo G.B.: Arizona father denied medical care in ICE custody now relies on caneGuillermo "Memo" Gallardo Barrera, a longtime Arizona construction worker and father of two, has spent over a year in detention and now can't walk without a cane, with no diagnosis given.Gilbert, AZ · Aug 16, 2026 · Conecta Arizona, PACER Monitor- Alma N.Q.: Tucson mother of three U.S. citizens detained by ICE near courthouseAlma Guadalupe Nunez-Quijada, 45, a mother of three U.S. citizens who has lived in the U.S. since age 4, was handcuffed by masked ICE agents leaving a Tucson courthouse after a minor hearing.Tucson, AZ · Jul 29, 2026 · KJZZ, Tucson.com, Univision
Patience G.: Mother of U.S. citizen daughter lured to airport gate, held by ICEPatience Gore, a Zimbabwean mother married to a U.S. citizen, was seized at a United Airlines gate after 24 years in the U.S. and held nearly two weeks, disrupting an IVF cycle; a judge ordered her freed.Phoenix, AZ · Mar 27, 2026 · Aviation A2Z, View from the Wing, Inside Flyer +2
Flor V.L.: DACA mother of two detained by ICE while Christmas shopping in PhoenixFlor Ivet Vargas-Loya, a DACA recipient and restaurant owner, is the sole provider for her two children after her husband's deportation. She was handcuffed while Christmas shopping in Phoenix despite wearing an ankle monitor.Arizona · Dec 31, 2025 · The Arizona Republic, Threads, Univision +3
Guatemalan mother in Border Patrol custody told to take or leave newbornA Guatemalan woman gave birth at a Tucson hospital while in Border Patrol custody and faced immediate deportation, forced to decide whether to take her newborn. After public pressure, she and the baby were released to a Phoenix nonprofit.Tucson, AZ · May 2025 · ACLU, KOLD, Tucson.com +4
Arkansas
California
Monica R.: Nurse detained 15 days by ICE during Disneyland tripMonica Ryadi, a 30-year-old nurse who fled religious persecution in Indonesia as a child, was detained by ICE at LAX in front of her young son and held two weeks before a judge ordered her release.“He experienced the whole thing. Me being cuffed and had to walk away with these groups of men God knows where.” — Monica RyadiLos Angeles, CA · Oct 15, 2026 · 6ABC, Philadelphia Inquirer, CBS News +9
Carlos O.J.: Father of Marine sergeant detained by ICE at visa fingerprinting appointmentCarlos Ortiz Jara, 49, a mechanic married 20 years with four U.S.-born children, was detained at a visa fingerprinting appointment in Pomona. He remains held at Adelanto while his wife fights for his release.Pomona, CA · Oct 11, 2026 · Los Angeles Times, NYLA News, Newswire
Luis A.: Fresno father here 49 years detained by ICE driving to workLuis Arreguin, 54, who has lived in the Fresno area for 49 years and was pursuing citizenship, was detained without a warrant while driving to work. He is now fighting deportation from a McFarland facility.Fresno, CA · Oct 7, 2026 · KMPH, The Fresno Bee, CalMatters +1- Elizabeth N.: 63-year-old woman with schizophrenia re-detained, threatened with Ghana deportationA 63-year-old green card holder from Sierra Leone with schizophrenia, who raised a law student daughter, was detained at a routine ICE check-in after 13 compliant years and now faces deportation to Ghana.Adelanto, CA · Sep 22, 2026 · CourtListener
María: Indigenous mother of four detained by ICE in Oxnard after questioning arrestMaría, an Indigenous Mixtec farmworker and single mother of four in Oxnard since 2007, was detained after questioning agents arresting a friend. She was released after seven hours with an ankle monitor and required check-ins.Oxnard, CA · Sep 18, 2026 · American Community Media, News 247 Plus, LA Post +1
Maureen N.: Bay Area nurse, mother of two, deported to Kenya after ICE check-inMaureen Wanjiru Ngure, a 38-year-old nurse and mother of two in Concord, was detained at a routine check-in after 20 years in the U.S. and deported to Kenya in August.“I felt depressed, I felt confused, I was asking the question: why,” — Maureen Wanjiru NgureSan Francisco, CA · Sep 14, 2026 · Florida Public Interest Research Group, KQED, Idaho Public Press +2
David M.M.: Father of two U.S. citizen children held 10 months by ICEDavid Eduardo Mejía Martínez, a Los Angeles father of two and his family's main provider, was held over 10 months on an unproven gang accusation. A judge found no evidence and ordered his release in September.Sherman Oaks, CA · Sep 8, 2026 · El País, Department of Homeland Security, CourtListener
Man on valid visa arrested at asylum interview, separated from U.S.-born childrenA man who had followed immigration appointments for seven years was arrested mid-interview for asylum, separated from his American spouse and children. A judge ordered his release within five hours after an emergency petition.Bakersfield, CA · Jul 14, 2026 · San Francisco Chronicle, LinkedIn- Jesus Q.F.: Father of four U.S. citizens detained by ICE at work permit appointmentA construction business owner and father of four, in the country since 2000, was detained again at a routine biometrics appointment. A judge ordered his release within 24 hours.Riverside, CA · Jul 6, 2026 · CourtListener
Wapato father of five U.S. citizen children detained by ICEA Wapato father who worked at the same Yakima Valley fruit company for 15 years was detained after his wife confronted officers at a courthouse. He is held in Tacoma, leaving his wife and five children without their sole provider.Pomona, CA · Jun 26, 2026 · VPM, Yakima Herald, Block Club Chicago +1
Luis J.T.: Father of four U.S. citizen children held by ICE after 30 yearsA Mexican national married to a U.S. citizen with four citizen children after more than 30 years in the U.S. was arrested at a Fontana McDonald's and has filed to challenge his detention.Fontana, CA · Jun 26, 2026 · CourtListener
Carlitos P.: TikTok journalist shot by ICE, arm atrophied after 300 days heldCarlitos Ricardo Parias, a TikTok journalist and father of two with 340,000 followers documenting ICE activity, was shot in the elbow by agents and held over 300 days; his untreated arm has since atrophied.Los Angeles, CA · Jun 2026 · LA Taco, ABC7, Times of India +15
Etinosa O.: Nigerian man deported despite torture protection order, now hiding in TogoEtinosa Osahon, 49, lived in California with his wife and three U.S. citizen children under torture protection before ICE deported him through Ghana. He is now hiding in Togo with malaria.Los Angeles, CA · May 21, 2026 · The Cable, Legit, Nigeria Updates +2- Isael U.S.: Napa agricultural worker with four U.S. citizen children detained by ICEA Mexican farmworker and father of four U.S. citizen children, in Napa for decades, was detained again in May 2026 without a hearing. A court barred his re-detention without notice and a hearing first.Napa, CA · May 12, 2026 · CourtListener
Meenu B.: Court interpreter held 45 days by ICE, denied food and medicationMeenu Batra, a court interpreter and single mother of four whose youngest just joined the Army, was held 45 days despite valid work authorization. A judge ordered her release, citing denied food, water and medication.Hercules, CA · May 5, 2026 · Times of India, New England Herald, Economic Times +17
Chicana painter's father, here 40 years, detained by ICEPainter Criselda Vasquez said her father, a 40-year U.S. resident and grandfather, was detained during a traffic stop; a GoFundMe for his legal fees raised nearly $75,000.“My father and one of his workers were detained by ICE while simply on their way to work.” — Criselda VasquezCalifornia · Apr 10, 2026 · The Independent, Hyperallergic, The Daily Beast +6
Armando G.P.: Father detained by ICE while wife is dying of brain cancerArmando Gonzalez Procopio, a 49-year-old handyman in Big Bear Lake for over 20 years, was detained while his wife lay dying of brain cancer; a court ordered his release.Big Bear, CA · Apr 10, 2026 · 2001 Online, Univision, ABC7 +3- Nelson M.A.: Colombian asylum applicant detained by ICE at interview, separated from familyA Colombian asylum seeker living in Compton with his girlfriend and child was detained at a USCIS interview and held with almost no contact with family. A judge ordered his release.Tustin, CA · Apr 9, 2026 · CourtListener
- Javier R.G.: Father of six U.S. citizens detained by ICE at Santa Ana officeA married father of six U.S. citizen children, who came to the U.S. as a child in 1989, was arrested after reporting to a Santa Ana immigration office. A judge granted him a bond hearing but denied release.Santa Ana, CA · Apr 9, 2026 · CourtListener
Moorpark family deported to Mexico by ICE, 3-year-old U.S.-born son left behindA Moorpark mother, father and their 12-year-old daughter, who dreamed of playing professional soccer, were deported to Tijuana within 24 hours of a routine ICE check-in after eight years in the U.S. Their 3-year-old U.S.-born son stayed behind with relatives.Moorpark, CA · Mar 24, 2026 · KCLU, Blue Water Healthy Living- Fernando A.O.: Husband and father of U.S. citizens held after Fountain Valley traffic stopA 38-year-old Mexican man, married to a U.S. citizen with an American citizen son, was detained at a Fountain Valley traffic stop and held at Adelanto without a bond hearing despite a pending asylum case.Fountain Valley, CA · Mar 23, 2026 · CourtListener
- Shani E.: Father of U.S. citizens detained by ICE at LAX before funeral flightAn Iranian man who came to the U.S. as a child in 1993, married to a citizen with two citizen children, was detained at LAX while flying to his father-in-law's funeral. A court ordered his immediate release.Los Angeles, CA · Mar 18, 2026 · CourtListener
- Daniel L.R.: Guatemalan father of three U.S. citizens detained by ICE after 22 yearsA Guatemalan father of three U.S. citizens, in the country since 2004, was detained at a courthouse in March 2026; a judge ordered his release or a bond hearing within 48 hours.Adelanto, CA · Mar 13, 2026 · CourtListener
Crime survivors protected by Congress being deported by ICEYessenia Ruano, a former Milwaukee teacher's aide awaiting a trafficking-survivor visa, self-deported to El Salvador with her U.S. citizen children after ICE threatened her at a check-in. A lawsuit challenges new ICE guidance ending protections for crime survivors.Los Angeles, CA · Mar 4, 2026 · ABC7, International Business Times, WGBH +1- José L.L.: Father of U.S. citizen child held five months without a bond hearingA Salvadoran man who has lived in the U.S. about 20 years and has a citizen child was held at Adelanto for five months without a bond hearing. A judge ordered him released in August.Simi Valley, CA · Mar 4, 2026 · CourtListener
Alberto G.R.: Construction worker dies in ICE custody after untreated illnessAlberto Gutiérrez Reyes, 48, a construction worker who had lived in the U.S. nearly 25 years, died in ICE custody Feb. 27 after weeks of untreated fever, pain and yellowing skin.Los Angeles, CA · Feb 27, 2026 · El País, ICE, HuffPost +6- Karla Q.H.: Single mother of two U.S. citizens detained by ICE in Victorville, CaliforniaA single mother of two U.S. citizen children was arrested in Victorville and held at Adelanto without a bond hearing. A court has now ordered she receive one within 7 days.Victorville, CA · Feb 17, 2026 · CourtListener
Narciso B.: Father of three U.S. Marines beaten during ICE arrest in Santa AnaNarciso Barranco, a landscaper and father of three U.S. Marines, was punched repeatedly by masked agents outside an IHOP in Santa Ana. His deportation case was dismissed in February 2026, though DHS is appealing.Santa Ana, CA · Feb 13, 2026 · Spectrum Local News, Associated Press, Tri City Record +4- Xaixuan Z.: Father of two U.S. citizen children detained by ICE at AdelantoA Chinese father of two U.S. citizen children, ages 4 and 1, was detained at Adelanto Detention Facility despite living here over eleven years with a pending asylum case. A judge ordered his immediate release.Adelanto, CA · Feb 13, 2026 · CourtListener
- Rogelio F.H.: Father of four U.S. citizen children detained at AdelantoA Mexican man who has lived in Pomona, California for 17 years with his spouse and four U.S. citizen children was detained at Adelanto after an enforcement operation. A court ordered his immediate release, citing a due process violation.Adelanto, CA · Jan 19, 2026 · CourtListener
- Sergio S.S.: Father of three U.S. citizens arrested by ICE at Long Beach AirportA Salvadoran father of three who has lived in the U.S. since age 12 was arrested at Long Beach Airport after clearing security; a judge has now ordered his release from Adelanto.Long Beach, CA · Jan 12, 2026 · CourtListener
- Jose Pablo T.G.: Salvadoran father of four U.S. citizens arrested by ICE at immigration interviewA Salvadoran father of four U.S. citizen children, in the U.S. since 2004, was arrested at a scheduled interview with his wife; a judge ordered his immediate release.Santa Ana, CA · Jan 9, 2026 · CourtListener
Daycare teacher with work permit and U.S. citizen dad arrested by agentsA Chicago daycare teacher with a work permit was arrested in front of parents and children. In Los Angeles, a U.S. citizen was detained at a Home Depot while his 1-year-old citizen daughter remained in the car.Chicago, IL; Los Angeles, CA · Dec 26, 2025 · ABC News, Associated Press, CNN- Jingfeng X.: Truck driver detained again despite tracking, compliance, pending appealA truck driver and father who has lived here over a decade with no arrests was re-detained by ICE despite wearing a GPS monitor; a judge ordered his release within 24 hours.Adelanto, CA · Nov 20, 2025 · CourtListener
- Samuel G.I.: Father of three U.S. citizen children arrested by ICE after court hearingA man who lived in the U.S. for 25 years with three citizen children was detained right after a criminal court hearing, despite six years of release without conditions. A judge ordered him freed, citing a lack of proper hearing.Rancho Cucamonga, CA · Nov 14, 2025 · CourtListener
Dennis Q.: U.S. citizen father arrested by ICE, agents drive off with his toddlerDennis Quiñonez, 32, a U.S. citizen, was separated from his 1-year-old daughter during a Home Depot parking lot arrest; she returned with a bruise and rash. He was freed on bond after two days.Cypress Park, CA · Nov 6, 2025 · Carrillo Firm, CBS News, The LA Local +2- Saul F.R.: Father of U.S. citizens who never missed check-ins re-detained by ICEA husband and father of U.S. citizens who had lived in the country over 24 years was redetained on November 1 despite years of compliant check-ins. A judge ordered his immediate release.Adelanto, CA · Nov 1, 2025 · CourtListener
- Veronica M.B.: Mother of three U.S. citizens held by ICE at Adelanto since NovemberA Mexican woman who has lived in the U.S. since 1995 and is the mother of three citizen children has been held at Adelanto since November 2025. She has no criminal history and was denied bond and release.Adelanto, CA · Nov 1, 2025 · CourtListener
Saúl Z.: Father deported at ICE check-in, leaving autistic U.S. citizen son aloneSaúl Zermeño, 45, had lived in the U.S. 36 years and was the sole caregiver for his autistic 15-year-old son. Deported October 3 after a routine check-in, leaving his son to cope alone.Los Angeles, CA · Oct 3, 2025 · CBS News, Inspiration Webs, KFF Health News +4- Carlos E.H.: Guatemalan father of three U.S. citizens held 9 months at AdelantoA Guatemalan father of three U.S. citizen children, who has lived in Los Angeles for years, was held nine months at Adelanto after bond was denied over a prior DUI. A judge ordered his immediate release.Los Angeles, CA · Aug 26, 2025 · CourtListener
Single mother arrested at cannabis farm raid, 10-month-old left with family friendsA single mother was arrested during a July 2025 raid on a Southern California cannabis farm, leaving her 10-month-old U.S. citizen child in the care of family friends.Southern California · Jul 2025 · CNN- 361 arrested, one worker dies in ICE raids on California cannabis farmsICE raided California cannabis farms, arresting 361 workers including 14 teens; a 15-year-old was left caring for two younger brothers after his mother's deportation. A worker fleeing the raid fell 30 feet and died.California · Jul 2025 · CNN, Associated Press, Los Angeles Times +1
Cynthia O.: Canadian mother detained by ICE at green card interviewCynthia Olivera, a mother of three married to a U.S. citizen, was handcuffed by ICE agents during her green card interview and has been held for weeks awaiting deportation.Chatsworth, CA · Jun 13, 2025 · 10News, The Guardian
Jenny R.: U.S. citizen mother, children inside as federal agents blast Huntington Park doorJenny Ramirez and her 1-year-old and 6-year-old children were inside their Huntington Park home when agents set off an explosive that blew off the front door, giving no warning though all were U.S. citizens.“I told them, ‘You guys didn’t have to do this, you scared my son, my baby,’” — Jenny RamirezHuntington Park, CA · June 2025 · ACLU, The Guardian, NBC Los Angeles
U.S. citizen children, 14 and 17, handcuffed as parents detained in OceansideThe Robles Ortega family was woken in Oceanside when agents broke windows, set off flashbangs and sent in a drone, handcuffing the parents and their 17- and 14-year-old U.S. citizen children until neighbors stepped in.Oceanside, CA · June 2025 · ACLU, NBC San Diego, KPBS
Alberto P.: Father of four detained on his way to work in RiversideAlberto Perdomo, the sole provider for his wife and four young children, was detained during a traffic stop on his way to work and is held at Adelanto Detention Center. His family joined a class-action lawsuit over the enforcement sweeps.Riverside, CA · Jun 1, 2025 · Courthouse News, Public Counsel, Immigration Defenders
Jesús: Father of four deported to Mexico after signing away rights without glassesJesús, a 10-year car wash employee and father of four, was deported to Mexico after agents pressured him to sign papers without his glasses, separating him from his wife and children in Inglewood.Inglewood, CA · Jun 1, 2025 · The Guardian
Nicolas R.: Father of three U.S. citizens detained by ICE after 35 yearsNicolas Rodriguez, a landscaping business owner with three U.S. citizen children, has lived in the country over 35 years. He is held at Otay Mesa and must soon choose voluntary departure or deportation.Los Angeles, CA · Feb 25, 2025 · CBS News, Times of San Diego
Gladys G. and Nelson G.: Parents of three U.S. citizen daughters deported to Colombia after 35 yearsGladys and Nelson Gonzalez, married 35-year U.S. residents with three citizen daughters and active in church work, were deported to Colombia in February 2025 after a routine immigration check-in.Orange County, CA · Feb 21, 2025 · CNN, The Mercury News
Angela M.M.: Mother of four U.S. citizens arrested by ICE at supermarket jobAngela Mata Mendoza, a supermarket worker of 10 years married to a U.S. citizen with four citizen children, was detained during her shift despite never missing a check-in; her lawyer won her release.Escondido, CA · Jan 27, 2025 · Criminal Defense Law Center West Michigan, Brooks Law Firm, Legal Reach +7
Colorado
Rigoberto S.Q.: Stepfather of U.S. citizen held 8 months by ICE without bond hearingRigoberto Santillan-Quiroz, a stepfather to a U.S. citizen who has lived here about twenty years, was held eight months without a bond hearing after a traffic stop. A court ruled the denial unlawful.Aurora, CO · Jul 1, 2026 · ACLU, Lux Vera Hall, Albuquerque Journal +11- Joel S.E.: Father of two U.S. citizen toddlers arrested by ICE at DMVA Peruvian asylum seeker and father of two U.S. citizen toddlers, working in A/C mechanics, was detained after leaving the DMV in July 2026. A court ordered his immediate release without conditions.Aurora, CO · Jul 1, 2026 · CourtListener
- Hector B.S.: Colorado business owner and father of U.S. citizen daughter detained by ICEA Mexican-born business owner who has lived in Colorado over 20 years and has custody of his U.S. citizen daughter was detained after a petty offense arrest. A federal court ordered a bond hearing by July 7, 2026.Aurora, CO · May 5, 2026 · CourtListener
- Josue G.H.: Family breadwinner with U.S. citizen daughter detained by ICE after 25 yearsA man held at Aurora ICE Processing Center after 25 years in the U.S., with five citizen siblings and a citizen daughter, worked in construction as his family's main earner. A court ordered him released, finding his detention improper.Aurora, CO · Apr 3, 2026 · CourtListener
Jeanette V.R.: Activist mother held 9 months by ICE after protestJeanette Vizguerra, a 43-year-old activist and mother of four, has been held nine months at Aurora's GEO facility after her March arrest. Her lawyer says she was denied a bond hearing over her activism.Aurora, CO · Dec 19, 2025 · CourtListener, CourtListener, American Friends Service Committee +2
Marina O.: Douglas County teacher and her children detained by ICE, sent to TexasMarina Ortiz, a fifth-grade teacher in Douglas County, Colorado, was detained with her children during a routine immigration appointment and sent to a Texas facility despite holding valid work authorization through 2029.Centennial, CO · Oct 24, 2025 · Denver Post, CPR Podcasts, Colorado Public Radio +6
Connecticut
Florida
- Helen B.S.: Honduran mother told by ICE to bring tickets for U.S. citizen childrenA Honduran mother and her son, in the U.S. 14 years under a supervision order, were threatened with deportation without notice after she sought asylum help for fear of returning home. A judge temporarily barred their removal.Orlando, FL · Sep 6, 2026 · CourtListener
Julio B.: Miami mechanic, 72, deported to Tapachula, Mexico, after 46 years hereJulio Borrell, 72, a Cuban mechanic in Florida since 1980 and father of seven, was deported to Tapachula, Mexico after 46 years here. He now patches tires on the street, saving to rent a room.“I'm in a place called Tapachula, Chiapas” — Julio BorrellMiami, FL · Aug 26, 2026 · Latin Times, Cuba Headlines, CiberCuba +1
Olga P.: Mayan translator deported to Guatemala, leaving four U.S.-citizen children behindOlga Perez, 47, a Mam-language interpreter who volunteered for decades helping police, courts and hospitals in Palm Beach County, was deported to Guatemala after nearly 30 years, leaving behind four U.S.-citizen children.Florida · Jul 31, 2026 · USA Today, Palm Beach Post, Blue Water Healthy Living +2
Four U.S. citizen siblings left alone after ICE detains parentsFour U.S. citizen siblings in Florida, ages 13 to 21, have lived on their own since their Guatemalan parents were detained by ICE last fall. The eldest, 21, left college to run the family landscaping business and pay rent.Palm Beach County, FL · Jul 25, 2026 · Magzter, PRX, Columbia Tribune- Pedro C.M.: Florida father of four U.S. citizen children held without bond hearingA Honduran man who has lived in Florida over 20 years and has four U.S. citizen children was arrested without a warrant while traveling to work. He is held at Krome without a bond hearing.Orlando, FL · Jul 10, 2026 · CourtListener
JeanCarlos F.M.: DACA father deported to Honduras after year in ICE custodyJeanCarlos Fiallos Manzanares, a Miami man with DACA status who lived in the U.S. over 30 years, was detained after a traffic stop and deported to Honduras after a year, away from his wife and sons.Miami Florida · Jul 1, 2026 · WLRN, The Marshall Project
Eight children, three U.S. citizens, fly to Guatemala without their parentsEight children, including a one-year-old, flew from Miami to Guatemala to join relatives after their parents were deported or left the country. Three are U.S. citizens.Miami, FL · Jun 26, 2026 · Global Nation (Philippine Daily Inquirer), Grand Junction Sentinel, WLRN +1
Yoelí B.C. and Rebeca P.B.: Venezuelan mother and 20-month-old U.S. citizen daughter deported by ICE within hoursYoelí Altagracia Bracho Casanova, 26, and her 20-month-old U.S. citizen daughter were detained at an immigration appointment and deported to Venezuela within hours, despite a pending family petition and legal filings.Jacksonville, FL · Jun 13, 2026 · CiberCuba, Cuba Headlines, El Pitazo +2
Marvin S.: Honduran father self-deports after ICE raid, leaving U.S. citizen daughter behindMarvin Suazo, 43, self-deported to Honduras on May 25 after an ICE raid on his workplace, leaving behind his wife and daughters, including one who just graduated from Yale.Miami, FL · May 25, 2026 · Latin Times, Ms. Magazine, Outdoor Kitchen Pilot +2
Rubeliz B.: Venezuelan doctor detained by ICE while traveling with 5-year-old U.S. citizen daughterDr. Rubeliz Bolívar, an emergency medicine resident, was detained with her 5-year-old daughter at McAllen airport while heading to an asylum interview despite holding a valid work permit; she was released the same night.Orlando, FL · Apr 16, 2026 · El Imparcial, Archy Newsy, American College of Emergency Physicians +1- Elmer G.S.: Honduran father of U.S. citizen children arrested by ICE at his homeA Honduran father of U.S. citizen children who has lived here over 20 years, owns a home and pays taxes was held after a judge denied him a bond hearing. A court ordered his immediate release.Fort Pierce, FL · Mar 30, 2026 · CourtListener
Heidy S.: Nursing mother deported to Cuba after ICE separated her from breastfeeding infantHeidy Sánchez, a home health aide and mother, was handcuffed and separated from her nursing one-year-old during a routine check-in, then deported to Cuba two days later. She remains apart from her daughter and husband.Florida, FL · Mar 23, 2026 · The Times, ABC Action News, CNN +15
Doris F.: Parents detained by ICE in Florida, 4-month-old U.S. citizen left with pastorDoris Flores and her husband were detained from their Lakeland, Florida home one night, leaving their 4-month-old citizen daughter and 8-year-old without a caregiver until their pastor took the girls in.Lakeland, FL · Mar 23, 2026 · ProPublica, The Marshall Project, Reuters +1
Rogelio: Father of five held by ICE seven months, approved for green cardRogelio, 39, a Guatemalan immigrant married to a U.S. citizen with five children, was held for seven months after a traffic stop. A judge has now approved his path to a green card.La Belle, Florida · Mar 9, 2026 · AOL, Miami Herald, Detroit News +1- Rolando G.C.: Father of two U.S. citizens held two months after Florida traffic stopA Guatemalan man who has lived in the U.S. 14 years and has two citizen children was held two months after a Florida traffic stop before a court ordered his immediate release.Florida · Feb 18, 2026 · CourtListener
Angel C.: Venezuelan IT specialist with TPS detained by Border Patrol at approved jobAngel Camacho, a Venezuelan asylum seeker married to a U.S. citizen with American-born children, was arrested at an approved IT job site in Dania Beach and held 30 days before release on bond.Dania Beach, FL · January 6, 2026 · NBC Miami, International Business Times, MSN +1
Haitians deported from U.S. describe being left stranded, broke, and missing belongingsSeveral Haitian deportees described arriving home broke and missing belongings, including Natacha Antoine, 42, a former nurse's aide from Indianapolis whose $600 passport was never returned. A report found over 470 deported to Haiti since July.“I did more for the United States than the United States did for me,” — Natacha AntoineOrlando, FL · Oct 1, 2025 · HCN Times, NewsWav
Marcos Antonio O.B.: 57-year-old father of U.S. citizen held by ICE nearly six monthsMarcos Antonio De Oliveira Barros, 57, has spent nearly six months at a Florida detention center after overstaying a tourist visa. His daughter, a U.S. citizen, is raising money online to cover legal costs while supporting the family's construction business.Stewart, FL · Sep 24, 2025 · The Mirror, ACHEI USA
Darian M.M.: Venezuelan TPS holder, father of 15-month-old U.S. citizen, deported by ICEDarian Maldonado Medina, a Venezuelan with protected status and a 15-month-old U.S. citizen son, was detained at a routine check-in in Tampa and deported three weeks later despite a court order extending his protection.Tampa, FL · Sep 5, 2025 · Miami Herald, Reuters, Reuters
Alejandra J.: Former Marine's wife deported after 20 years, leaving U.S. citizen daughter behindAlejandra Juarez, married to a former Marine, left her 16-year-old U.S. citizen daughter and husband behind after 20 years in Florida, settling in Mexico while her husband kept their roofing business running.Davenport, FL · Aug 10, 2025 · 8 News Now, News 9, Bay News 9 +2
Edgar: DACA recipient and father of three U.S. citizens held at Alligator AlcatrazEdgar, 36, a DACA recipient and father of three U.S. citizens, was held 13 days at "Alligator Alcatraz" before being moved to Glades County Jail. His attorney is seeking his release.Florida · Jul 10, 2025 · CBS News, WESH, Click Orlando
Pastor and father of five U.S.-citizen children deported to Guatemala by ICEAn evangelical pastor, construction business owner and father of five U.S.-citizen children was detained at a routine check-in despite a stay of removal and years of compliance. He was deported to Guatemala weeks later.Florida · May 2025 · ACLU, Christian Post, Tampa Bay Times
America P.R.: Mother facing deportation with U.S. citizen daughter who has life-threatening genetic disorderAmerica Perez Ramirez, 52, was ordered to report for deportation with her 11-year-old daughter Yoselin, a U.S. citizen with a life-threatening genetic disorder requiring her mother's care, after past stays were denied.Florida, FL · Apr 28, 2025 · NBC News, AOL, Newser +1
Quebec V.: Florida DACA mother of three U.S. citizen children considers self-deportingQuebec Vasquez, a DACA-protected mother of three U.S. citizen children, is considering leaving for Mexico after a decade of protection, citing fear over shifting immigration policies.South Florida, FL · Mar 3, 2025 · KZTV 10, ABC15, 10News
Jacqueline: Pregnant mother left without income after husband deported to GuatemalaJacqueline, a Guatemalan immigrant in the U.S. for a decade, became pregnant after her husband was detained and deported in March 2025. Fearful of enforcement, she avoided leaving home until a nonprofit clinic arranged rides to her prenatal appointments.North Florida, FL · Mar 2025 · 19th News, ACLU
Georgia
Angel C.S.: Decatur father seeking asylum arrested by ICE outside his homeAngel Ivan Chavez Salas, an HVAC technician and father of two in Decatur, was arrested outside his home while pursuing an asylum case. Students raised nearly $20,000, and a judge granted him $10,000 bond.Decatur, GA · Sep 8, 2026 · Atlanta News First, WRDW
Pauline B.: Cameroonian mother whose fallopian tube was removed without consent held at StewartPauline Nadege Binam, 36, who came to the U.S. at age 2, remains held at Stewart Detention Center, separated from her 17-year-old daughter. She reads nearly a book a day to cope.Lumpkin, GA · Dec 1, 2025 · The Advocate, CBS News, The Pink Times +2- Chong V.: Hmong man in U.S. since infancy detained at ICE appointment in AtlantaChong Leng Vue, 45, who arrived as a stateless infant from a Thai refugee camp, was detained at a routine immigration appointment and is the sole provider for his family of seven.Atlanta, GA · Oct 16, 2025 · Newsweek, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Detroit Free Press +1
Idaho
Illinois
Children zip-tied and left without clothing in federal raid on Chicago apartmentsDozens of Chicago residents, including children who were zip-tied, were detained in a September 30 raid targeting alleged gang ties; no charges were filed and 17 detainees later sought $85 million in damages.Chicago, IL · Aug 2, 2026 · WBEZ, FOX 32 Chicago, Boston Globe +9
Airida G.: Army veteran's wife deported by ICE after arrest at green card interviewAirida Gould, a massage therapist married to Army veteran Mark Gould and mother of three adult children, was detained during her green card interview and deported to Poland after 66 days, with her husband denied a goodbye.Chicago, IL · Jul 21, 2026 · Newsweek, ABC7 Chicago, Front Page Detectives +2
Saray G.G.: Venezuelan mother and child detained by ICE at courthouse during court appearanceA Venezuelan mother and her child were detained by ICE at a Cook County courthouse during a hearing over a retail theft charge. Both remain held as removal proceedings continue.Bridgeview, IL · June 18, 2026 · News Tribune, Chicago Tribune, Banco de Profissionais
Nik S.: Albanian barber arrested by ICE, separated from U.S. citizen wife and daughterBesnik Shembitrasi, a 49-year-old barber married to a U.S. citizen and father to an 8-year-old daughter, was arrested outside his Elmwood Park home on May 17 after two decades in Illinois. He remains held in Brazil, Indiana.Elmwood Park, IL · May 17, 2026 · Oak Park River Forest Patch, ALBEU
Kevin G.: U.S. citizen teen with stage 4 cancer dies day after parents deportedKevin González, an 18-year-old U.S. citizen with stage 4 cancer, pleaded for his detained parents' release so he could see them before dying. They were freed and reunited with him in Mexico on May 8; he died the next day.Chicago, IL · May 9, 2026 · ABC7 Chicago, NBC Chicago, CNN +2
Ruben T.M.: Father held by ICE as 16-year-old daughter's cancer treatment put on holdRuben Torres Maldonado, a home painter in the U.S. since 2003, was detained outside a Home Depot days after his daughter Ofelia began cancer treatment. He was freed after a judge found his detention unlawful; Ofelia died in February.Chicago, IL · Feb 15, 2026 · The City, NBC Chicago, ABC7 +4
Families report children zip-tied, separated from parents in South Shore raidFamilies in Chicago's South Shore reported children zip-tied, separated from parents, and held for hours during an Oct. 1 raid where 37 people were arrested, including a U.S. citizen left zip-tied outside for nearly three hours.Chicago, IL · Oct 3, 2025 · ABC7 Chicago, Chicago Sun-Times, Illinois Department of Law Enforcement +2- Jesus H. and Brian: Father of three and U.S. citizen son arrested in Little VillageJesus Hernandez, 46, a father of three who has lived in the U.S. for 25 years, was arrested with his 21-year-old U.S. citizen son Brian in Little Village; family says he was the household's main provider.Chicago, IL · Oct 3, 2025 · ABC7 Chicago, CNN
Valentina G. and Naythan: Asylum-seeking mother and U.S. citizen infant held in hotel by ICEColombian asylum seeker Valentina Galvis and her infant son, a U.S. citizen, were detained after a Chicago court hearing and held in an O'Hare hotel room for five days.Chicago, IL · Jun 9, 2025 · Injustice Watch, Chicago Sun-Times, Parriva +2
Indiana
Iowa
Alvaro G.T.: Father of U.S. citizen child detained by ICE after decade in IowaAlvaro Anastacio Garcia Tevalan, 20, has lived in Iowa since age 11 and has a U.S. citizen child. A judge ruled his re-detention after a domestic abuse arrest violated due process and ordered a bond hearing.Clarion, IA · Jul 15, 2026 · Times Republican, KCRG, Iowa Capital Dispatch
Daniel M.: Asylum seeker married to U.S. citizen detained at ICE check-in in IowaDaniel Angel Meléndez, a Salvadoran immigrant with a U.S.-born child, has lived in the country since 2017 and applied for asylum over gang violence threats. His wife and family are asking Rep. Miller-Meeks to stop his deportation.Hills, IA · Nov 4, 2025 · Des Moines Register, CBS 2 Iowa, WQAD
Kentucky
Armelle B.: Louisville mother arrested by ICE at green card interview, held 8 weeksArmelle Bondonga, 21, who came from Congo as a child, was detained during her green card interview in front of her husband and young son, then held eight weeks before a judge ordered her released.Louisville, KY · Oct 6, 2026 · WDRB Wave, WBAL, WLKY +4
Ciceli M.: Honduran mother deported by ICE, four children left behindCiceli Martinez, a mother of four with no criminal record, was detained at a routine ICE check-in and deported to Honduras after 12 years in Louisville, leaving her children in her 20-year-old son's care.Louisville, KY · Mar 10, 2026 · WDRB Wave, WKYT, WBKO
Louisiana
Haitians who lost TPS deported weekly to danger in Cap-HaïtienMore than 450 Haitians have been deported to Cap-Haïtien since late July 2026, many after years living in the U.S. and separated from citizen family, into a country unable to safely receive them.Alexandria, LA · Sep 4, 2026 · News Tribune, Miami Herald, Human Rights Watch
Jasmir U.: Nicaraguan asylum seeker arrested at ICE check-in and deported, separated from husbandJasmir Urbina, 35, a Nicaraguan asylum-seeker in New Orleans, was scammed out of nearly $10,000 by a fake attorney, then arrested at an ICE check-in and deported in January 2026, separated from her husband.New Orleans, LA · Aug 11, 2026 · Las Vegas Sun, KBPP, Uromi Voice +8
Woman detained by ICE during Kenner traffic stop as children watchA mother was detained by ICE during a traffic stop in Kenner, Louisiana, with two of her three children, ages 14 and 2, in the car; a friend now cares for all three, including her U.S.-born toddler.Kenner, LA · Jul 30, 2026 · WWL-TV, Yahoo News
Karina A.S.J.: Nursing mother of four U.S. citizen children held by ICE three monthsKarina Alvarez San Juan, a mother of four nursing a newborn, was held over three months after a traffic stop; a judge ordered her released after finding ICE broke its own policy.Basile, LA · Jul 9, 2026 · Law & Crime, CourtListener, CourtListener +5Sinri B.: Afro-indigenous mother deported with U.S. citizen child returns to LouisianaSinri Baltazar, a Garifuna mother, was deported with her three children after signing a misleading document. A judge ordered them returned to Louisiana, where they now stay with a church acquaintance.Louisiana, LA · Apr 2026 · Yahoo News, 1News, Associated Press
Alicia: Detained pregnant woman miscarries in ICE custody, denied care, then deportedA woman named Alicia miscarried while detained at a Louisiana facility after being denied adequate food and medical care. She was held two more months, then deported, separated from her children.Louisiana · Feb 20, 2026 · AOL, News 4 San Antonio, 19th News
Cecil E.Q.: Pregnant Honduran mother detained by ICE, separated from breastfeeding babyCecil Elvir-Quinonez, 25, a Honduran mother in the U.S. since 2014, was separated from her breastfeeding infant after a traffic stop. She later learned in detention she was pregnant, receiving little care amid bleeding.Louisiana, LA · Jan 23, 2026 · Threads, 19th News, Latin Times +5
Vilma C.: Mother arrested by ICE, leaving 18-year-old U.S. citizen son caring for sisterVilma Cruz, a Honduran mother, was arrested by ICE in Kenner, Louisiana, leaving her 18-year-old U.S. citizen son to care for his 9-year-old sister alone.Kenner, LA · Dec 9, 2025 · CBS News, WBUR, Journal Sentinel +3
Iranian protester deported in restraint jacket, ICE gave Iranian authorities his phoneA Kurdish Iranian man who joined 'Women, Life, Freedom' protests and fled with his pregnant wife was forcibly deported to Tehran in a restraint jacket, then escaped to Iraqi Kurdistan, separated from his wife and newborn in Kentucky.Alexandria, LA · Sep 30, 2025 · TIME, CBS News, MS Now
Two-year-old U.S. citizen deported to Honduras by ICE before judge could ruleA 2-year-old U.S. citizen born in Baton Rouge was deported to Honduras with her undocumented mother and sister before a judge could rule on emergency motions to stop it. A federal judge is now investigating the lack of due process.New Orleans, LA · May 16, 2025 · ABC News, BBC, NBC News +2
3 U.S. citizen children, including one with cancer, deported by ICETwo families, including three U.S. citizen children ages 2, 4 and 7, were deported from New Orleans without lawyer access. One child with metastatic cancer went without medication.New Orleans, LA · Apr 25, 2025 · ACLU, El Semanario Online, PBS +1- Amilcar L.P.: Former DACA recipient with U.S. citizen daughters deported to HondurasAmilcar Lisser-Posadas, 29, a former DACA recipient and father of two U.S. citizen daughters, was held 12 days in overcrowded conditions, sick and untreated, then deported to Honduras despite a pending legal request.Alexandria, LA · Apr 23, 2025 · The Guardian
- Two mothers deported by ICE with children, including 4-year-old with cancerTwo mothers were deported to Honduras with their children days after routine check-ins, including a 4-year-old U.S. citizen with Stage 4 kidney cancer sent without his medication. They are now suing over the removals.Louisiana · April 2025 · ACLU, Miami Herald, The Mirror +1
Maine
Dale P.: Maine market owner and father of U.S.-born son detained by ICEDhavalkumar 'Dale' Patel, who owns Wallace's Market in Friendship, Maine, was arrested at his store, leaving his wife to run the business and care for their toddler son. A judge has temporarily blocked his deportation.Friendship, ME · Jul 4, 2026 · Press Herald, Bangor Daily News, The Maine Wire +1
Francoise M.: Asylum seeker and mother of U.S. citizen detained by ICE in MaineFrancoise Makuiza, 32, was arrested leaving for her job at a Portland assisted living facility. She has no criminal history, has lived in Maine over 12 years, and is the mother of a U.S. citizen.Portland, ME · Jan 24, 2026 · Press Herald, Bangor Daily News
Maryland
Jesus A.S. and Adriana G.S.: Parents of U.S. citizen daughters detained by ICE outside Baltimore schoolJesus Acevedo Sanchez, 39, a father of two, was injured when armed ICE agents broke his car window outside his children's Baltimore school. A judge found no probable cause and ordered him and his partner freed.“Wouldn't anybody [think they were being carjacked]? A man jumps out wearing all black head to toe, breaks your window, and points a gun at you and your little girls in the back seat. You're going to do whatever you can to protect your family and that's what he did, and the judge saw it for what it was.” — Rachel GirodBaltimore, MD · Jul 24, 2026 · CBS News, The Banner, WBAL +1
Gavilan S.: Baltimore mother of U.S. citizen children arrested in ICE school operationGavilan Sanchez, a mother of U.S. citizen children, was arrested by ICE outside her children's Baltimore school alongside her husband. A judge ordered her released in July, and later ordered her husband's release too.“They said cooperate with us because if you don't, we will do to you what we did to your husband or worse,” — attorney Rachael SavageBaltimore, MD · Jun 25, 2026 · WBAL, WBALtv, CBS News +2
Marco: Deported father watches U.S. citizen son graduate online from El SalvadorMarco, 61, ran a contracting business in Maryland for nearly 40 years before being arrested at a Home Depot and deported to El Salvador. He watched his son's graduation by livestream, 2,000 miles away.Maryland · May 8, 2026 · Eastern New Mexico News, The Fappening Newz, Pipedot +2
Massachusetts
Iara C.S.: Brazilian woman recovering from miscarriage detained by ICE, denied medical careIara do Carmo Santana, 29, a Brazilian house cleaner recovering from a miscarriage, was detained after a 911 call and denied medical care for days. A judge ordered her released.Burlington, MA · Sep 8, 2026 · Boston Globe, Boston.com, International Business Times +2
Margarita M.: Honduran mother self-deports with U.S. citizen daughter, older daughters stay in BostonHonduran mother Margarita Melgar, in the U.S. 12 years, left for Honduras with her 10-year-old U.S. citizen daughter rather than face indefinite detention, leaving two older daughters in Boston.Brighton, MA · Jun 30, 2026 · WGBH, New York Times, CBS News +2
Mariola P.: Guatemalan genocide survivor and Lynn educator not detained at ICE check-inMariola Perez, a Guatemalan genocide survivor and school paraprofessional in Lynn for 16 years, was not detained at her May 11 ICE check-in after over 4,500 people signed a petition for her.Burlington, MA · May 11, 2026 · CBS News, Boston.com, Item Live
Bruna F.: Former DACA recipient arrested by ICE driving to pick up her sonBruna Ferreira, who came to the U.S. in 1998 at age six, was arrested while driving to pick up her 11-year-old son from school. She was held 26 days before a judge freed her on $1,500 bond.Revere, MA · Dec 8, 2025 · El País, The Hill, The Independent +1- Cuban father of six U.S. citizens deported to Mexico under unwritten dealA Cuban father of six U.S.-citizen children who fled Cuba as a teenager and built a business here was detained after trying to cross into Canada, then deported to Mexico in November.Plymouth, MA · Nov 1, 2025 · WGBH, Miami Herald
Hilda R.S.: Green card holder violently arrested by ICE in front of autistic sonHilda Ramirez Sanan, 50, a green card holder of over 20 years, was pulled from her car and beaten by masked ICE agents in front of her autistic 13-year-old son. She is now suing.Chelsea, MA · Sep 26, 2025 · WGBH, Lawyers for Civil Rights, Briefly +2
5-year-old U.S. citizen with autism surrounded by ICE during father's arrestA 5-year-old U.S. citizen with autism was surrounded by agents outside her Leominster home as they tried to arrest her father, Edwards Hip Mejia, who has lived in the U.S. over two decades. He was later detained and granted bond.Leominster, MA · Sep 16, 2025 · NBC News, Boston Globe, Boston.com
Hector C.: Guatemalan landscaper detained by ICE at Saugus Town HallHector Chavez, 25, a landscaper with a pending asylum case and valid work permit, was detained while working at Saugus Town Hall, leaving his two young U.S.-born children asking for him.Saugus, MA · Sep 10, 2025 · Boston Globe, TURNTO10, Boston.com
Daniel F.M.: Chelsea father detained by ICE before three children on Mother's DayA father of three, Daniel Flores-Martinez, was detained in front of his family after agents smashed his car window on Mother's Day; the family is suing for $1 million. A separate stop left a mother and her autistic 13-year-old hospitalized.Chelsea, MA · May 11, 2025 · Boston.com, Boston Globe
Daniel F.M.: Father dragged from car by ICE agents as U.S. citizen children screamDaniel Flores Martinez was dragged from his car and slammed to the ground by unmarked agents on Mother's Day while driving to church with his wife and children. He and his wife are now suing ICE and Homeland Security.Chelsea, MA · May 2025 · Northeast News Collaborative, Boston Globe, Lawyers for Civil Rights +2
Michigan
- Miguel R.R.: Widowed father detained by ICE, daughter postpones college to raise siblingsMiguel Rosas Ruiz, a widowed Michigan painting business owner and father of four, was detained near Ypsilanti in March. His daughter postponed college to raise her siblings before he was freed on bond in April.Michigan · Apr 16, 2026 · CNN, MLive, Michigan Daily +1
- Stanley M.: Nursing assistant held by ICE nine months, misses U.S. citizen son's birthdayStanley Minjale, a Malawian nursing assistant in Indiana with a nearly two-year-old U.S. citizen son, has spent nine months detained at a Michigan facility, missing the boy's second birthday while appealing his case.Baldwin, MI · Oct 2025 · Interlochen Public Radio, Michigan Public
Minnesota
30+ parents and 4 students from Minnesota elementary school detained by ICEAt Valley View Elementary in Columbia Heights, Minnesota, where two-thirds of students are Latino, at least 30 parents and four students were detained, leaving staff to counsel shaken children through the fallout.Columbia Heights, Minnesota · Apr 5, 2026 · Sahan Journal, MPR News, People +2
Abel: Father of four detained by ICE while delivering groceries to neighborsAbel, who has lived in Minnesota 29 years and raised four U.S.-born children, was detained while delivering groceries to neighbors through a church program. He was later released, but his sons were traumatized after witnessing the arrest.Minneapolis, MN · Apr 5, 2026 · NPR, Sahan Journal, Star TribuneChildren injured, 6-month-old hospitalized as ICE agents smash car in MinneapolisA family returning from a basketball game was trapped by an ICE action in Minneapolis; agents smashed a car window holding six children, leaving a 6-month-old unconscious after tear gas exposure.Minneapolis, MN · Jan 16, 2026 · ABC News, Yahoo News, CBC +3
Isabel: Honduran mother's work permit and ID withheld by ICE despite judge's orderIsabel, a single mother of two from Honduras with a pending asylum case, was held four days before a judge ordered her release. ICE has not returned her work permit, ID, and her daughter's passport.Bloomington, MN · Jan 2026 · Mother Jones, NBC Chicago, ICE
Jose G.: Father detained by ICE, 13-year-old son tackled and handcuffed in Eden PrairieJose Gomez and his 13-year-old son, undocumented immigrants from Mexico, were detained in Eden Prairie while moving their car after a snowstorm; the boy was tackled and later needed care for an abnormal heartbeat. Gomez remains in custody.Eden Prairie, MN · Dec 11, 2025 · CBS News, ReportWire
Four arrested in Minnesota ICE home raid, U.S. citizen children left behindFour people were arrested in a Minnesota home raid, including a couple whose 7-year-old son was left with another detainee's pregnant wife. Family members said agents entered without a warrant and pointed guns at children.Burnsville, MN · Dec 9, 2025 · NBC News, CBS News, MPR News +1
Antonia A.M.: Twin Cities mother of two U.S. citizen children detained by ICEAntonia Aguilar Maldonado, a mother of two U.S. citizen children, was freed after a federal judge's order, having been detained in July while on her way to work despite an active asylum case.Fort Snelling, MN · Aug 13, 2025 · MPR News, Fox 9, KSTP +3
Missouri
Fatou T.: Iowa mother of four deported to Sierra Leone, where she'd never beenFatou Traore, a hospital custodian and mother of four who lived in Iowa City for decades, was deported to Sierra Leone despite a pending motion to stay her removal.Florissant, MO · Oct 13, 2026 · The Gazette, Labor Notes, CBS 2 Iowa +6
Maria Lidia V.H.: Mexican mother deported, newborn taken into Missouri protective custodyMaria Lidia Valle-Hernandez, 28, was deported after trying to hand her newborn to another woman to settle a smuggling debt; the baby was placed in Missouri's protective custody.St. Louis, MO · May 11, 2026 · ICE, WJAC-TV, Total News +3
Alejandro P.: Ballwin father deported to Mexico, U.S. citizen wife and daughters to followA Ballwin father faces deportation to Mexico with a 20-year re-entry bar after pleading guilty in federal court. His wife and two daughters plan to relocate to Mexico to stay together.Ballwin, MO · Jan 9, 2026 · KSDK, Fox 2 Now
Heidy C.: Kansas City mother of autistic U.S. child faces deportationHeidy Cifuentes, a pork plant worker and mother of three U.S.-born children, cares for her autistic 5-year-old daughter but was denied a stay and now faces deportation.Kansas City, MO · Jun 2, 2025 · Kansas City Star, Telemundo Kansas City
Montana
- Jesus V.H.: Montana father of U.S. citizen children held by Border Patrol, denied medicationJesus Verde Hernandez, a Worden father of three with a 14-year partner, was held 30 hours with little food after Border Patrol mistook him for someone else. A judge ordered his release, finding the detention unconstitutional.Lewistown, MT · Jul 30, 2026 · Daily Montanan, Lewistown News, PACER Monitor
Roberto O.R.: Father of four U.S. citizens held 109 days in ICE detentionRoberto Orozco-Ramirez, a diesel mechanic and father of four who spent 25 years building a business in Froid, Montana, was freed after 109 days in detention when a judge ruled his continued holding unlawful.Great Falls, MT · May 15, 2026 · Montana Free Press, THIRTEEN, PBS +5
Nebraska
- Alejandra: Nebraska mother of four U.S.-born children fears ICE will separate familyAlejandra, 30, an undocumented mother of four U.S.-born children in Nebraska, fears separation as ICE raids intensify and her parents plan to self-deport within six months.Nebraska, NE · Nov 1, 2025 · CNN, KTVZ
Sabina C.L.: Omaha mother held months after ICE defied bond orderSabina Carmona-Lorenzo, mother of five U.S. citizen children living in Nebraska over 20 years, was held for months after ICE blocked a judge's bond order; a federal judge ordered her released.Omaha, NE · Sep 3, 2025 · ACLU of Nebraska, KETV, WOWT
Luis M.: U.S. citizen left caring for siblings after mother detained in ICE raidLuis Mejía, 20, a Nebraska native raised in South Omaha, was briefly held at work during the Glenn Valley Foods raid before being cleared as a citizen, while his mother was detained for days.Omaha, NE · Jun 10, 2025 · NBC News, Nebraska Public Media, Nebraska Examiner +1
New Jersey
Raul R.: Filipino father of two U.S. citizen children transferred by ICE to MississippiRaul Raagas, 30, a Filipino father of two U.S. citizen children, was arrested during a traffic stop after a family court hearing and transferred to a Mississippi detention center. His bond hearing took place Sept. 30 after two delays.Jersey City, NJ · Aug 10, 2026 · GMA Network, Philippine Daily Mirror, Tofa News +2
Edwin L.C.: Diabetic father dies in New Jersey ICE custody after alleged medication denialEdwin Jovanny Lopez-Cornejo, a Salvadoran father who lived in the U.S. nearly 20 years, died August 1 after a medical emergency at a New Jersey ICE facility. His family says he was denied medication.“I will not let his story be unheard, I want his voice to be heard loud and clear,” — Lopez Cornejo's 12-year-old daughterNewark, NJ · Aug 4, 2026 · The City Reporter, MS Now, Jersey Vindicator +25
Iemad S.: Syrian restaurant owner and autistic son's caregiver detained by ICE at check-inIemad Saifo, 65, a Syrian-born chef who owns a Collingswood restaurant and cares for his autistic son, was detained during what he thought was a routine check-in. After community support and a court order, he was granted bond and released.“He says not to worry - as any father would,” — Zena, his daughterNew Jersey · Jul 31, 2026 · The Retrospect, The Sun Papers, Explore New Jersey +6
Friedrich C.O.: Peruvian man wrongly named New Jersey suspect by ICE after leaving countryFriedrich Castillo-Ormeno self-deported to Peru in March 2026, but ICE mistakenly linked him to an assault on an officer in New Jersey in June, raising his fears about his U.S.-born daughter's documentation.Manahawkin, NJ · Jun 18, 2026 · NBC News, NJ 101.5- Isidro C.R.: Electrician with autistic U.S. citizen son arrested by ICE without warrantA Mexican electrician who has lived in the U.S. for nearly 29 years and is father to an autistic son was arrested without warrant while walking his dogs. He is now seeking release or a bond hearing.Newark, NJ · May 15, 2026 · CourtListener
Patricia B.S.: U.S. citizen honors student, 17, left alone after mother deported to MexicoPatricia Balbuena Soto, a New Jersey mother of nearly 30 years, was deported to Mexico on August 5, 2025, leaving her 17-year-old honors-student daughter to manage school, finances and the mortgage alone.Atlantic County, NJ · May 12, 2026 · NJ.com, And Diligence, Newsweek +2
U.S. citizen children left alone on roadside after ICE arrests fatherA father was arrested by ICE while driving his teenage son and daughter, both U.S. citizens, to school in New Jersey; agents left the children unattended on the roadside before anyone arrived to take them.Franklin Township, NJ · Mar 15, 2026 · News 12 New York, ABC News, KGW +3- Elmer G.A.: Bronx cook and father of five U.S. citizens denied bond hearingElmer Gonzalez Altamirano, a Bronx cook who has lived in the U.S. 20 years and supports his wife and five children, was wrongly denied a bond hearing. A federal judge ordered his immediate release on March 25, 2026.Newark, NJ · Feb 11, 2026 · Documented, Standing Record, EXA
Karim D.: Flemington man separated from family for 9 months in ICE custodyKarim Daoud, a Hunterdon County resident of more than 20 years, was detained while renewing his work permit and held over nine months before reuniting with his wife and two children.Flemington, NJ · Dec 26, 2025 · New Jersey Hills, mycentraljersey.com, Daily Voice +1
New Mexico
Carlos: Father with TPS detained by ICE at meeting to reunite with childrenCarlos, a Venezuelan man with temporary protected status, was detained after being told he'd reunite with his children, ages 14 and 16, who had waited nearly a year in a shelter. Officers then stripped and restrained him.“This operation is designed to force parents to make an impossible choice between reuniting with their children and seeking safety.” — Chiqui Sanchez Kennedy, one of Carlos' attorneysNew Mexico · Dec 1, 2025 · CNN, KFF Health News, LAist +3
Paulo Cesar G.L.: DACA father of four U.S. citizen children held 42 days by ICEPaulo Cesar Gamez Lira, a 27-year-old father of four, was held 42 days after agents surrounded his car with his young children present. A judge ordered his release, ending his separation from a three-month-old with serious medical needs.Albuquerque, New Mexico · Sep 24, 2025 · ACLU of New Mexico, Spectrum Local News, El Paso Times +2
New York
- Ricardo B.C.: Brazilian father of two U.S. citizens arrested by ICE driving to workRicardo Aparecido Barbosa da Cunha, a Brazilian father who ran a Massachusetts construction business, was arrested after a traffic stop and later freed on bond. The Supreme Court will now review the detention policy used against him.New York, NY · Oct 1, 2026 · Law & Crime, NBC News, ACLU +32
Mother deported despite bond among 57 arrested in New York factory raidOver 60 agents raided a Cato, New York snack factory, arresting 57 workers including pregnant women and mothers. Juana Castillo Avelar, a mother of three U.S. citizen children living here over 20 years, was deported despite being granted bond.Cato, NY · Sep 3, 2026 · Bloomberg Law News, Daily Freeman, WTOP +7
Haitian family with 3-year-old U.S. citizen separated by ICE, deportedA Haitian couple and their two sons, ages 5 and 3, were deported after fleeing to Canada for asylum and being sent back to ICE. The father was separated from his family and denied a call to a lawyer.“You will lose him” — the fatherNew York · Aug 27, 2026 · Just Security, Human Rights Watch, The News Intel
Juan Carlos Q.: Staten Island father of U.S. citizens arrested by ICE while playing dominoesJuan Carlos Quintero, 41, a Staten Island resident for nearly two decades with two U.S. citizen children, was arrested while playing dominoes with neighbors and later released after an emergency lawsuit.Staten Island, NY · Jun 20, 2026 · The City Reporter, The City, CBS News +2
Irvi C.: Husband of U.S. citizen teacher self-deports to Mexico with U.S.-born daughtersIrvi Cruz, married to a U.S. citizen teacher and father of two American-born daughters, left for Mexico after nearly two decades in New York, choosing to self-deport over fear of the political climate.Bronx, NY · Mar 3, 2026 · The Atlantic, Briefly, EBSCO
Ofelia T. and Ruben T.M.: U.S. citizen teen with stage 4 cancer dies, father detained by ICEOfelia Torres, 16, a Chicago high school junior with stage 4 cancer, died Feb. 13, 2026, days after a judge granted her detained father protection from deportation. She had publicly pushed for his release.New York, NY · Feb 16, 2026 · The Independent, NBC News, CBS News +2
Three men arrested by ICE in mistaken identity operation in Staten IslandThree men in Staten Island, including a father of two U.S. citizen children who had lived here nearly two decades, were wrongly arrested in a stakeout for other targets.Port Richmond, NY · Feb 2026 · The Guardian
4-year-old U.S. citizen and family held 18 days in hotels by ICEA Honduran mother and her two children, including a 4-year-old U.S. citizen, were held in hotel rooms for 18 days and nearly deported before a judge's order stopped the flight. They were released January 7.New York, NY · Dec 20, 2025 · The City Reporter, CNN, Bellingham Herald
Jorge: U.S. citizen's husband deported by ICE to Ecuador before meeting newborn daughterJorge, an Ecuadorian man from Queens, was deported after a routine check-in and missed the birth of his newborn daughter, Maite. His wife Jessica now cares alone for three children and lost their apartment.New York, NY · Oct 5, 2025 · CNN, AM New York, ReportWire- Geovani M.O.: Bronx father held 6 days by ICE without shower or toothbrushGeovani Maradiaga Ochoa, a Honduran immigrant who lived in the Bronx 20 years with his U.S. citizen wife and daughter, was held six days at a check-in without a shower or toothbrush.Bronx, NY · Aug 11, 2025 · The City, Chicago Sun-Times, Block Club Chicago +1
North Carolina
Jose M.A.: Honduran father deported, detained again in TexasJose Eliezer Martinez-Andino, a 20-year-old Honduran mechanic in Raleigh with a work permit, was deported away from his U.S. citizen daughter, then held again for weeks after a judge ordered his return.Raleigh, NC · Aug 8, 2026 · The News & Observer, WUNC, Newsweek +3
Guillermo A.: DACA beneficiary deported to Mexico, separated from newborn premature infantGuillermo Aguilar, a business owner who had lived in the U.S. nearly 40 years under DACA, was deported to Mexico while his wife was pregnant; their son was born premature in May and remains hospitalized.North Carolina · Feb 3, 2026 · Univision, La Nación, Consulta Monterrey
Fidel R.: North Carolina construction worker self-deports, leaving U.S. citizen wife and daughtersFidel Rivera, who worked construction in North Carolina for over 20 years, left for Mexico in October to avoid detention, separating him from his wife and two daughters this Christmas.Rolesville, NC · Oct 13, 2025 · ABC News, ABC11, The News & Observer
Ohio
Johnny J.: Haitian father married to U.S. citizen deported after ICE check-in in OhioJohnny Jules, a Haitian father of two married to a U.S. citizen, was deported after an Ohio check-in despite pursuing a green card and surviving a 2022 boat capsizing that killed 11 others.Columbus, OH · Sep 15, 2026 · Miami Herald
Ingrid M.: Guatemalan mother detained by ICE, toddler placed in foster careIngrid Mejia, a 25-year-old Guatemalan farmworker, was jailed for driving without a license and then held over four months in ICE detention, while her 3-year-old U.S. citizen son was placed in foster care.Greenville, OH · Feb 25, 2025 · theyoungcenter.org, Reuters, The Straits Times +1
Oklahoma
Milana: Army veteran's wife detained at ICE check-in faces deportation to wartime RussiaMilana, a Russian trafficking survivor married to a U.S. Army veteran, was detained at a routine ICE check-in after 20 years of compliance and faces deportation to Russia during the war despite closed airspace.Oklahoma City, OK · Jun 29, 2026 · The Oklahoman, KOCO, WBAL
Ruperto: Mexican father deported after traffic stop, leaving U.S. citizen children behindRuperto, a roofing contractor in Oklahoma for 28 years, was deported after a traffic stop, leaving his daughter in college and his son to support the family.Oklahoma City, OK · Sep 12, 2025 · The Oklahoman, News Block, Oklahoma Watch +1
Oregon
Miguel G.P. and Dulce Maria T.S.: Parents detained and deported to Mexico, leaving U.S. citizen daughterMiguel Garcia Pazaran and his wife Dulce Maria Trejo Segura were stopped while driving to work in Hillsboro, Oregon, and deported to Mexico within eight days, leaving their 2-year-old U.S. citizen daughter behind.Hillsboro, OR · Dec 21, 2025 · People, The Oregonian
Harrinson O.B.: Venezuelan tattoo artist seeking asylum detained by ICE over his tattoosHarrinson Jose Osuna Benitez, a Venezuelan tattoo artist and asylum seeker with a newborn son in Portland, was detained over his tattoos. A federal judge ordered his release on December 30 after weeks in custody.Portland, OR · Nov 17, 2025 · Investigate West, Yelm Online, EXA +1
Jackie M.: Portland mother detained by CBP, separated from four U.S. citizen childrenJackie Merlos, a Honduran mother and longtime Portland business owner, was detained by CBP during a family picnic, separating her from her four U.S. citizen children. She remains held in Tacoma.Portland, OR · Jul 10, 2025 · Seattle Times, Rolling Stone, Bellingham Herald +3
Pennsylvania
Mamadou C.: Philadelphia man protected from return to Guinea held, ICE seeks Ghana deportationMamadou Fadel Cherif, 56, a dining services worker supporting his wife and four sons, was arrested leaving his home in July despite a decades-old order barring deportation to Guinea. Officials now seek to deport him to Ghana.Philadelphia, PA · Sep 29, 2026 · Philadelphia Inquirer, CourtListener- Manuel S.A.: Ecuadorian father detained by ICE in Philadelphia based on mistaken identityAn Ecuadorian man with two U.S. citizen children, in the country since 2003, was detained in Philadelphia after officers mistook him for someone else. A court ordered his immediate release days later.Philadelphia, PA · Jul 29, 2026 · CourtListener
- Adimando H.C.: Father of U.S. citizen teen with learning disabilities held by ICEA Mexican father who has lived in the U.S. for 30 years, married to a citizen with a 14-year-old son who has learning disabilities, was freed after a judge ruled his detention unlawful.Pike County, PA · Jul 1, 2026 · CourtListener
- Jose S.P.: Father of two U.S. citizen children detained by ICE after 30 yearsA Mexican man who lived in the U.S. for 30 years and has two U.S. citizen children was detained, then ordered released after a court found his detention unlawful.Philadelphia, PA · May 18, 2026 · CourtListener
Johny M.A.: Father of boy with brain cancer deported to Bolivia after 5 monthsJohny Merida Aguilara accepted deportation to Bolivia after nearly five months detained, as his wife and three U.S. citizen children prepare to join him while caring for their 5-year-old son with brain cancer and autism.Philadelphia, PA · Jan 23, 2026 · Philadelphia Inquirer, Media News Source, World Journal
Puerto Rico
Juan Francisco A.M.: Father of two U.S. citizens held by ICE in Puerto RicoJuan Francisco Areche Minaya, 49, a Dominican father of two living in Puerto Rico 28 years, was denied bond despite a judge's order; his habeas case was later dismissed without prejudice.“My dad has been present throughout my entire life. His family, his children, his mother, and his life are all here. Keeping him detained based on the claim that he might flee—when everything he has built over so many years is in Puerto Rico—is completely incomprehensible and untrue. What we want is for him to return to us and be able to defend himself while free,” — Darjeerling ArecheSan Juan, PR · Sep 1, 2026 · CourtListener, ACLU of Puerto Rico, Agenda 56 +1- Marcelo J.: Father of U.S. citizen daughter with serious medical condition held by ICEA Dominican father of a one-year-old U.S. citizen daughter with a serious medical condition was stopped by ICE vans on his way to work and remains detained after a court denied his release request.San Juan, PR · May 27, 2026 · CourtListener
- León C.S.: Dominican man detained in Puerto Rico, sole caregiver for U.S. citizen familyA Dominican man who has lived in Puerto Rico since 2004 and is the sole caregiver for his U.S. citizen wife and daughter was detained near his business. A court blocked his transfer and ordered a bond hearing.San Juan, PR · Apr 24, 2026 · CourtListener
South Dakota
Tennessee
Memphis mother deported after ICE nightclub raid, four U.S.-citizen children left behindA mother working at a Memphis nightclub was deported to Honduras within days of a raid, leaving her four U.S.-citizen children with their grandmother; the youngest cries for her nightly.Memphis, TN · Sep 15, 2026 · WKNO FM, MLK50, Gambling News +11
Juan N.: Work visa holder arrested by ICE at El Paso airport on ThanksgivingJuan Nevarez, a Mexican national with a valid work visa, was arrested by ICE at El Paso airport on Thanksgiving Day. He is held in New Mexico while his wife and four U.S. citizen children await the case's outcome.Nashville, TN · Aug 2, 2026 · NPR, NewsChannel 5, Taste of Country +1
Alfonso V.M.: Mexican man transferred to ICE custody by Tennessee sheriffAlfonso Vasquez-Morales, a Mexican national, was placed under an ICE detainer after a DUI crash killed 69-year-old motorcyclist William Richard Sauer. He told officers he entered the U.S. through Arizona about three years ago.Jonesborough, TN · Jul 7, 2026 · ICE, FOX 17, The Legal Advocate +5
Octavio A.A.: Father of disabled U.S. citizen daughter held by ICE, defying release orderOctavio Andrade-Aguilera, the sole financial provider for his wife and disabled American daughter, remains held in Alabama despite a judge's order against detaining him to avoid harming his family.Chattanooga, TN · Apr 8, 2026 · Times Free Press, Local 3 News- Roberto T.C.: Father of three U.S. citizens held by ICE after Tennessee traffic stopA Mexican man who came to the U.S. as a teenager in 2004 was detained without a bond hearing after a traffic stop, despite having a citizen spouse and three citizen children.Wilson County, TN · Feb 23, 2026 · CourtListener
Bryan C.R.: Father of two U.S. citizens accepts deportation to Mexico after ICE detentionBryan Cuautle Romero, 29, married with two U.S. citizen children, was detained after checking in at an ICE office and accepted deportation to Mexico set for June 6, 2026.Memphis, TN · Nov 21, 2025 · MLK50, Habeas Dockets- Memphis father and three U.S. citizen children hide in fear of ICEAn undocumented father and his family, including three U.S. citizen children, hid on the floor of their Memphis apartment for 10 minutes during a police response, fearing he would be taken by ICE.Memphis, TN · Nov 1, 2025 · Magzter, PSR Memphis, Tennessee Lookout
Texas
Houston homebuilder fatally shot by ICE agent in case of mistaken identityLorenzo Salgado Araujo, a Houston homebuilder and father of three who lived there nearly 35 years, was fatally shot by an ICE agent who mistook him for someone else on July 7, 2026.Houston, TX · Oct 21, 2026 · El País, Houston Chronicle, USA Today +14
Emiliano A.C.: Diabetic contractor dies in ICE custody, medications deniedEmiliano Andrade-Covarrubias, 56, a Dallas contractor for decades, died in ICE custody in Laredo after his daughter said staff withheld his diabetes and heart medications. He is the seventh person to die in ICE custody in Texas this year.Laredo, TX · Oct 17, 2026 · Texas Tribune, westlakenews.org, Laredo Morning Times +1
Samuel N.: Texas pastor deported to Ghana, a country he has never visitedSamuel Nnamdi, a 45-year-old pastor and father of five who worked legally at UPS for five years, was deported to Ghana, a country he had never visited, separating him from his wife and children.Mesquite, TX · Oct 6, 2026 · MS Now, Europe News
Anyi H.E.: Honduran mother married to U.S. citizen faces separation from 7-year-old sonAnyi Hernandez-Escobar, a Honduran mother married to a U.S. citizen, was denied a pause in her deportation case. She may have to leave for Honduras while her seven-year-old son stays behind.Houston, TX · Sep 30, 2026 · Houston Chronicle, Idaho Public Press, The Mirror +3
Texas cook whose U.S. citizen son criticized ICE deported to MexicoA cook at an Alamo, Texas restaurant was arrested outside work and deported within hours after her teenage son, a U.S. citizen, publicly criticized ICE for detaining him.Alamo, TX · Sep 27, 2026 · Across the Americas, Eyes On Ice, Parriva +4
Jessica T.: DACA recipient deported to Mexico, separated from three U.S. citizen childrenJessica Trevino, a DACA recipient and elementary school cafeteria worker, was deported to Mexico in March 2026, separating her from her three U.S. citizen children in Texas.Alamo, TX · Sep 26, 2026 · The Straits Times, FWD.us, Criminal Justice Journal +6
Giovanna P.: Soldier's wife reported to ICE by Navy while picking up kids' IDsGiovanna Perez, 35, drove her four citizen children to a Navy base for ID cards and was reported to ICE, then detained despite a pending application meant to protect military families like hers.Corpus Christi, TX · Sep 21, 2026 · txgazette.com, Associated Press
Ernesto Z.H.: Father of four U.S. citizens says ICE deported him without a judgeErnesto Zuniga Hilario, who lived in the U.S. nearly two decades and has four U.S.-citizen children, was deported to Mexico City despite refusing voluntary departure. His attorneys are asking a federal judge to help bring him back.Lometa, TX · Sep 16, 2026 · Newsweek
Arelys B.M.: Army veteran's wife detained at routine ICE check-in, faces deportationArelys Barahona-Martinez, 40, married to a retired Army staff sergeant, was detained at a routine Dallas check-in and faces deportation despite years of compliance. She was later granted bond but remains jailed pending payment.Dallas, TX · Sep 15, 2026 · CBS News, BBC, Readers ID +4
Daniel T.P.: Witness to fatal Houston ICE shooting held seven weeks in detentionDaniel Tirado Pantoja, 43, a construction worker in the U.S. for about 30 years, was detained after witnessing his employer's fatal shooting by ICE. A judge ruled his detention violated due process, and he was freed August 26, 2026.Houston, TX · Aug 26, 2026 · Houston Chronicle, Click2Houston, Texas Tribune +3
Cristy V.T.: Army sergeant's wife deported to Honduras by ICE, leaving U.S. citizen daughterCristy Maryori Villafranca Trejo, 29, wife of an active-duty Army sergeant and primary caregiver to their 6-year-old daughter, was deported to Honduras despite a pending military parole case and congressional inquiry.“How can I even focus on my military career because I have to worry about how my wife is doing?” — Army Sgt. Hedar Leonel Turcios JuarezFort Bliss, TX · Aug 24, 2026 · Military Times, The Banner, Woke Spy +10
Oswaldo P.: Padres minor-league coach detained by ICE at El Paso airportOswaldo José Pirela, 34, a Padres minor-league coaching coordinator and father of two living near Phoenix, was detained at El Paso airport while traveling for work; he was released on bond August 24.El Paso, TX · Aug 24, 2026 · NBC DFW, NBC News, 10News +13
U.S. citizen teen raises younger sister alone after parents deported to HondurasDaysi Munoz and her husband were deported to Honduras after an August 2025 shoplifting arrest, leaving daughters Dulce, 19, and Maria, 13, alone; Maria has since reunited with them while Dulce stays in Texas.Burleson, TX · Aug 17, 2026 · NBC DFW, The Fort Worth, News Hunter +2
Elton P.: Green card holder denied insulin, deported after seven months in ICE custodyElton Purvis, a Rastafarian priest and father of nine U.S. citizen children, was detained for seven months, during which he says guards denied him diabetes care and proper food before his December deportation to Trinidad and Tobago.Pearsall, TX · Jul 31, 2026 · Texas Tribune, Hill Country Post, Antigua Trumpet +6
Nepthalí Z.S. and Cinthia C.O.: Pastors detained by ICE at Texas airport, threatened with separation from childrenTwo Edinburg, Texas pastors were detained at a McAllen airport while heading to a marriage retreat, their first trip away from their three U.S. citizen children. They were released after two days.McAllen, TX · Jul 27, 2026 · Common Dreams, La Hora, El Universal +7- Miguel Angel G.A.: Father of U.S. citizens held by ICE without a bond hearingMiguel Angel Gomez Alvarado, who had lived in the U.S. 14-15 years and was raising American citizen children, was freed after a judge ruled holding him without a bond hearing violated his rights, a decision an appeals court upheld.Taylor, TX · Jul 2, 2026 · Houston Public Media, Texas Tribune
Tania R.N.: Cuban mother of 3-year-old U.S. citizen detained by ICE at check-inTania Romero Naranjo, 24, a Cuban mother of a three-year-old U.S. citizen, was detained during a routine check-in in Portland, Texas. Her son now stays with his father as her family fights her deportation.Portland, TX · Jun 26, 2026 · CiberCuba, Cuba Llama, Cuba Headlines
Harlingen construction worker's wife detained on way to restaurant job, faces deportationThe wife of Joaquin, a Rio Grande Valley construction framer, was detained on her way to a restaurant job and now faces deportation to Mexico, leaving their three U.S.-born children's care uncertain.Harlingen, TX · Jun 10, 2026 · The Guardian- Glenda G.G.: Nursing mother held by ICE away from U.S. citizen infantA Honduran mother held since March after seeking shelter from an abusive partner was separated from her five-week-old breastfeeding daughter. A judge ordered her released, citing ICE's failure to follow its own postpartum detention rules.Laredo, TX · Jun 5, 2026 · CourtListener
Jose D.S.: Grandfather raising Uvalde survivor deported by ICE, returns after four monthsJose Danilo Diaz Sandoval, who had lived in the U.S. nearly 20 years and raised his granddaughter, an Uvalde shooting survivor, was deported in January 2026 and returned home after four months in Honduras.Uvalde, TX · May 23, 2026 · Telemundo
Haitian asylum seeker held 1,500 miles from infant, barred from sending breastmilkLT, a Haitian asylum seeker who fled persecution and rape, was held in Texas while her breastfeeding 13-month-old daughter stayed in Florida with LT's mother. Her asylum case was denied after three months in detention.Dilley, TX · May 15, 2026 · The Guardian
Gerardo G.R.: Father of U.S. citizens, caretaker of disabled wife, ordered deported to MexicoGerardo Gonzalez Reyes, 44, was detained after a false-report traffic stop. Despite advocacy from his disabled wife and U.S. citizen children, a judge ordered his deportation to Mexico.San Marcos, TX · May 15, 2026 · CBS Austin, CBS Austin, KXAN +1
Jose Francisco O.R.: DACA father detained by ICE after 24 yearsJose Francisco Orellana-Rivera arrived in the United States from Honduras at age 4 and was paroled into the community in 2001.Texas · May 15, 2026 · CourtListener, Newsweek, La Prensa +1
William A.: San Antonio father deported by ICE without emergency surgery for knee tumorWilliam Alexander Alfaro, a Honduran father with an active asylum case, was detained while driving his three children to school and later deported without surgery for a knee tumor, risking amputation.San Antonio, TX · Apr 23, 2026 · Habeas Dockets
Rubeliz B.: Venezuelan ER doctor and 5-year-old U.S. citizen daughter held by CBPDr. Rubeliz Bolívar, a 33-year-old ER resident in McAllen, Texas, was detained with her 5-year-old daughter while traveling to her asylum interview, which she missed.McAllen, TX · Apr 11, 2026 · Associated Press, American College of Emergency Physicians, Valley Central +1
Juan C.V.: DACA recipient detained by ICE while delivering breast milk to premature daughterJuan Chavez Velasco, a medical laboratory scientist and father of three, was detained while delivering breast milk to his premature daughter's NICU. His DACA status expired during his detention.Weslaco, TX · Apr 6, 2026 · Telemundo, Spectrum Local News, Telemundo 40 +11
U.S. citizen child with brain cancer deported to Mexico with parentsA 10-year-old U.S. citizen recovering from brain tumor surgery was deported to Mexico with her undocumented parents and siblings after agents ignored a hospital letter, cutting off her medical treatment.Rio Grande City, TX · Mar 24, 2026 · NBC News, Latin Times, ProPublica
Rubeliz B.B.: Venezuelan doctor with valid work permit held a month by ICEDr. Rubeliz Bolívar Barrios, 33, a physician with a valid work permit through 2030, was freed on bail after over a month in detention following her arrest at an airport despite valid documents.McAllen, TX · Mar 2026 · FOX RGV, KRGV, Caraota Digital +2- 11-year-old U.S. citizen with brain tumor deported after Border Patrol checkpoint stopAn 11-year-old U.S. citizen with a brain tumor was deported to Mexico after her parents were detained at a checkpoint during her medical checkup. Her health has since worsened.“My daughter never leaves my side. It would be extremely detrimental to her, in every respect, if I were separated from her.” — the motherRio Grande Valley, TX · Feb 24, 2026 · NBC News, Latin Times, TPR +3
Génesis G.C.: Five-year-old U.S. citizen missing after ICE transfer in San AntonioA five-year-old U.S. citizen, Génesis Ester Gutiérrez Castellanos, went missing after being transferred to ICE custody when her mother was arrested. She does not appear in any detention or child welfare database.San Antonio, TX · Jan 21, 2026 · Univision, Univision
Génesis G.C. and Karen G.C.: 5-year-old U.S. citizen deported to Honduras with mother after ICE detentionGénesis Ester Gutiérrez Castellanos, a 5-year-old U.S. citizen from Austin who misses her classmates and kindergarten teachers, was deported to Honduras with her mother after being held incommunicado for nearly a week.Austin, TX · Jan 11, 2026 · The Guardian, MSN, CNN +6
5-year-old U.S. citizen taken by ICE with mother in AustinA 5-year-old U.S. citizen was taken into ICE custody with her mother after an Austin police call, with no relatives or Child Protective Services contacted. Family members say they cannot locate the child in government databases.Austin, TX · Jan 5, 2026 · FOX 7 Austin, Austin American-Statesman
Carmen H.: Mother of six detained by ICE at San Antonio courthouseCarmen Herrera, a mother of six U.S. citizen children married to a U.S. citizen, was detained by ICE right after her immigration court hearing and later deported to Mexico.San Antonio, TX · Dec 21, 2025 · TPR, Univision- Families with toddlers and newborns held for months at Texas ICE facilityA Canadian mother and her 7-year-old daughter were detained for hours at a checkpoint despite her pending lawful status, then transferred to a Texas facility. Thousands of families there reported months-long stays and poor conditions.Dilley, TX · Dec 9, 2025 · CNN, CNN, NBT News +2
Victor P.P.: Venezuelan asylum seeker, father of U.S.-citizen twins, self-deported after months in detentionVictor Peralta Perez, a Venezuelan electrician and father of U.S.-citizen twin infants, was held over 100 days across facilities with reported mold and poor care before leaving the country in late February.El Paso, TX · Dec 4, 2025 · Newsweek, The Ravenna Report
Mother of teen beaten by ICE deported days after family spoke outTeresa de Jesus Ochoa Briseño, a cook arrested outside her Alamo restaurant, was deported to Mexico the same day, ten days after her son Luis, 17, said agents broke his wrist.Alamo, TX · Sep 11, 2025 · Newsweek, International Business Times, CRBC News +2- Maria: Mother of four U.S.-born children held through holidays in El PasoMaria, 39, who fled violence in Ciudad Juárez, was handcuffed outside court after a deportation order and held through the holidays before her January 20 release with an ankle monitor.El Paso, TX · Sep 9, 2025 · El Paso Matters, EXA
Jose P.G.: Father of seven U.S. citizen children with pregnant wife detained by ICEJose Pescador Garcia, father and stepfather of seven U.S.-citizen children with a high-risk pregnant wife, was freed by a federal judge in January after months in detention.Spring, TX · Sep 9, 2025 · PACER Monitor, EXA
Miguel Angel P.: US citizen detained by ICE agents after mistaken identityMiguel Angel Torres, a cook and 14-year Austin resident, was detained in 2017 after agents searching for his brother-in-law mistook him for the wrong person, leading his family to abandon their home and food truck plans.Navasota, TX · Jul 29, 2025 · Newsweek, FOX 26 Houston, Texas Tribune- Kenia P.: Mother of three deported to Honduras by ICE, U.S. citizen children followKenia Perez, who lived and worked in Texas for 10 years, was deported to Honduras, leaving her three children behind. Her son Isaac, 14, later traveled alone to rejoin her after getting a passport.Texas · Jul 2025 · CNN, Legit
Sergio G.S.: Chef deported after 36 years in U.S., held captive in MexicoSergio Garcia Silva, 65, a chef who once catered for President Bush's staff, was deported after 36 years over a 1989 order, then held captive by an extortion group in Mexico.Waco, TX · Jun 1, 2025 · Newsweek, The Mirror, Texas Tribune +2
Two U.S. citizen children, 4 and 5, deported to MexicoA mother was lured to an immigration appointment with false promises of asylum, then deported to Reynosa, Mexico with her three children, including two U.S. citizens ages 5 and 4.Austin, TX · May 7, 2025 · The Daily Beast, CBS News, Times of India +1
Denisse P.V.: Austin mother and three children, two U.S. citizens, deported by ICEA Mexican woman and her three children, two of them U.S. citizens, were arrested after she reported to a Pflugerville processing center following a traffic stop. The family was deported within 24 hours.Austin, TX · May 6, 2025 · KUT, KVUE, Austin American-Statesman
Jose A.: Father of three U.S.-born children detained by ICE after Texas traffic stopJose Alvaro, applying for a green card, was detained after a Lubbock officer stopped him over a license plate and called ICE, leaving his wife and three U.S.-born children facing his deportation.Lubbock, TX · Jan 29, 2025 · Texas Tribune, KRGV, CBS Austin +1
Utah
Raul M.M.: Salt Lake City father restrained by ICE agents who followed him homeRaul Moreno Meza was restrained by ICE agents inside his Salt Lake City home after they followed him from a gas station, his daughter said, though he hasn't left the U.S. in 22 years.Salt Lake City, UT · Jul 11, 2026 · The Salt Lake Tribune, KUER
Wilmer M.: Father of three U.S. citizens detained after CBP breaks shop doorWilmer Menjivar ran into his locked auto body shop in West Valley City, Utah, believing he was followed; CBP agents broke the door and detained him. His wife and three children plan to join him in El Salvador.West Valley City, UT · Jan 30, 2026 · KSL, KUTV
Jair C.: Utah husband of U.S. citizen held by ICE at green card interviewJair Celis, a 29-year-old Utah father and soccer coach, was detained during his final green card interview despite being married to a U.S. citizen. His attorneys plan to sue DHS for publicly citing his sealed juvenile court records.Salt Lake City, UT · Dec 9, 2025 · The Salt Lake Tribune, KSL News Radio
Marta R.L.: Mother of four with valid work permit deported after ICE airport arrestMarta Brizeyda Renderos Leiva, 39, a Salvadoran mother of four U.S. citizen children, was arrested at the Salt Lake City airport despite holding a valid work permit, then held nearly four months and deported, leaving her children behind.Salt Lake City, UT · Nov 4, 2025 · Univision, KUTV, KSL +2
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
Luis R.: Wapato father, sole provider for five U.S. citizen children, held by ICEJoseluis Ramirez, who worked 15 years at a Yakima Valley fruit company, was detained while driving to work, leaving his wife and her five children without a provider.Wapato, WA · Aug 31, 2026 · Yakima Herald, Spot on Washington, Wenatchee World +2- Avtar S.: Indian father of U.S. citizen children held by ICE a third timeA 54-year-old Indian man who has lived in the U.S. over three decades, with a wife and two citizen children, was detained for a third time despite a judge's order barring re-detention.Tacoma, WA · Aug 3, 2026 · CourtListener
- Venezuelan father of U.S. citizen son detained again by ICE over tattoosA Venezuelan father of a U.S. citizen son was detained again at Tacoma's Northwest Detention Center after ICE cited his tattoos, despite having been previously released by court order.Tacoma, WA · Mar 18, 2026 · Investigate West, Yelm Online, EXA
Wilmer T.M.: Vancouver father of three attacked by ICE dog, denied medical careWilmer Toledo-Martinez, 28, a Vancouver father of three married to a U.S. citizen, was attacked by an ICE dog after an agent lured him outside posing as a construction worker. He was hospitalized and later denied care in detention.Vancouver, WA · Nov 14, 2025 · Seattle Times, Lynnwood Times, KATU +3
Kenia M.: Mother of four U.S. citizens held four months by ICEKenia Merlos, a Honduran mother of four U.S. citizen children, was detained at the U.S.-Canada border in June and held nearly four months in Tacoma. A judge ended her deportation case, and she was freed October 28.Tacoma, WA · Nov 3, 2025 · OPB, KGW, Los Angeles Times
Sergio C.G.: Food truck owner detained by ICE at immigration interview, deported to MexicoSergio Cerdio Gomez, a Pasco food truck owner and father of three, was detained during a scheduled green card interview with his citizen wife, then deported to Chiapas, Mexico in June 2025.Yakima, WA · Jun 2025 · The News Tribune, KIMA TV, Newsweek +3
Wisconsin
Salah S.: Mosque president held 80 days by ICE in retaliation for Palestinian advocacySalah Sarsour, 53, a mosque president and father of six, was held 80 days, losing over 30 pounds amid worsening diabetes. A judge found ICE likely retaliated against him for Palestinian rights advocacy.Milwaukee, WI · Sep 29, 2026 · Journal Sentinel, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Reuters +16
Elvira B.S.: Wisconsin mother of four U.S. citizen children detained again by ICEElvira Benitez-Suarez, 51, a Wisconsin mother of four who fled violence in Mexico as a teen, was detained again in March after 35 years in the U.S. A judge granted her $1,500 bond in May.Sheboygan Falls, WI · Jun 1, 2026 · Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, WISN, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel +21
Yessenia R.: Milwaukee teacher's aide self-deported to El Salvador with U.S. citizen daughtersYessenia Ruano, a Milwaukee teacher's aide and mother of twin U.S.-citizen daughters, self-deported to El Salvador in 2025 after 19 check-ins over 14 years; a judge has now ordered she be allowed back.Milwaukee, WI · May 28, 2026 · Los Angeles Times, WPR, 19th News +2
Location not tied to one state
U.S. citizen children zip-tied in ICE raid on Idaho horse trackJuana Rodriguez, a U.S. citizen, was zip-tied and held for nearly four hours while holding her 3-year-old son during a raid on an Idaho horse track that detained about 400 people, including children as young as 7.“It was a rubber bullet, but at the time everybody was panicking. We were thinking that it was actual bullets” — Jehidi PerezID · Oct 8, 2026 · Investigative Post, The Independent, Idaho Statesman +13
Eber: Toddler U.S. citizen left in Mexico after parents deported to VenezuelaEber, a two-year-old U.S. citizen, remains in Mexico with caregivers after his parents were deported to Venezuela, recovering from lung surgery while the family awaits his visa.Mexico · Oct 6, 2026 · Diario El Regional del Zulia, Univision
Jorge M.C.: Father with U visa held by ICE three months, loses 15 kgJorge Mata Campos, 51, a Costa Rican construction worker and father raising a 16-year-old U.S. citizen son, has lost nearly 15 kilograms during three months at a Louisiana detention center.“Acá uno es un simple animalito al que ponen en un corralito mientras le sacan el dinero y le violan todos los derechos para después mandarlo a su país, ¿cuándo? Nadie sabe. Cuando a ellos les de la gana, porque las leyes no existen” — Jorge Mata CamposLA · Sep 25, 2026 · La Nación, LinkedIn, Newstral
Mother fearing ICE delays care for asthmatic U.S. citizen sonAn undocumented Maryland mother delayed rushing her U.S. citizen son's severe asthma attack to the hospital out of fear of encountering ICE, a pattern a national pediatricians' survey found common among immigrant families.Sep 17, 2026 · NPR, 247 Daily Info, KQED- Nayelli L.M.: Mother of US citizen son held by ICE after traffic stopA mother of a U.S. citizen son who has lived in the U.S. for more than five years was detained by ICE during a traffic stop. A federal judge ordered her immediate release, citing due process violations.Sep 11, 2026 · CourtListener
Carlos T.S.: Venezuelan father deported by ICE to Liberia despite court order protecting himCarlos Téllez-Sanchez, a Venezuelan father who worked at a car dealership and for Uber Eats, was deported to Liberia despite a court order protecting him, missing his newborn son's birth after nearly eight months in detention.TX · Aug 21, 2026 · PACER Monitor, Últimas Noticias, US Inquirer +9
Carlos R.L.: Cuban father deported to Equatorial Guinea without passportCarlos Rodríguez López, a Cuban father with a nine-year-old daughter and a U.S. citizen wife in Miami Gardens, was deported on a diverted flight and held in Malabo without a passport or legal help.LA · Aug 20, 2026 · Telemundo, CiberCuba, Cuba Headlines +2
Elvis R.V.: Honduran father of four deported by ICE to Liberia, far from familyElvis Rodriguez Venturas, a Honduran construction worker whose deportation to Honduras had been barred by a judge, was flown to Liberia with no advance notice, leaving his wife and four children in Texas.“I was the first to get off the plane, and they said, 'Welcome to Liberia. You're in Africa,'” — Paola Ferreira Dos SantosTX · Aug 20, 2026 · CBS News, Socast, CRBC News +3
Homero C.: Venezuelan soccer pro with U.S. citizen children held by ICE five monthsHomero Calderón, a professional soccer player and father of two, has been held in Georgia for five months despite pending visa applications, missing his daughter's first birthday.“So it's very, very hard and very difficult for our family to see him go through this nightmare.” — Ramón Calderón, his brotherFL · Aug 15, 2026 · KNPR, NPR, VPM
Maria L. and Abraham D.: 18-year-old raising four siblings after Border Patrol detains parents in FloridaWendy, 18, now cares for her four younger siblings after her parents, a Guatemalan plumber and homemaker of nearly 20 years, were detained driving home from church in Florida.“I never thought both my parents would get taken away at the same time, leaving me in charge of my four siblings. Leaving us all alone.” — Wendy DomingoFL · Aug 14, 2026 · Florida Today, Telemundo, WLRN
Father who testified against cartels deported by ICE despite protection from tortureA Mexican man in his late 40s, a Maryland father who testified against drug cartel members, was deported despite torture protections. A judge ordered his return within 14 days.MD · Aug 1, 2026 · Seattle Times, The New Republic, Newsweek +7
Zena G.: Eritrean father with torture protection deported to Central African RepublicZena Gebrgzabher, a 39-year-old Eritrean truck driver from Maryland, was deported to the Central African Republic despite protection against being sent to Eritrea. He is stranded without documents, separated from his wife and 5-year-old son.“We cannot leave, we don't have documents and we're suffering and missing our families, in a continent we don't know,” — Yasmany Moreno de ArmasMD · Jul 31, 2026 · US Inquirer, CBS News, News Dive +1- Three fathers of U.S. citizens held in Texas, attorney cites maggot-ridden mattressesThree men with no criminal records, U.S. citizen children and over a decade living here were freed by judges after enduring rotten food and unsanitary conditions in detention. The government is now trying to send them back.TX · Jul 20, 2026 · Arizona Mirror, Stateline, Law & Crime
- Eduard S.: Armenian father of three U.S. citizen children re-detained by ICEAn Armenian father of three U.S. citizen children married since 2000 was re-detained after reporting to ICE and now faces deportation scheduled for July 26.Jul 10, 2026 · CourtListener
Three ICE detainees with U.S. citizen children win right to bond hearingThree fathers of U.S. citizen children—two Mexican, one Honduran—who had lived in the U.S. over a decade won the right to a bond hearing after 90 days in detention, a federal appeals court ruled.Jul 3, 2026 · The Independent, Newsweek, Law & Crime +2
Father detained by ICE at FIFA event with his children, then deportedA father and asylum seeker was detained by ICE while attending a FIFA Club World Cup final with his children after police questioned him over a drone violation. He spent three months in detention before being deported.Jun 25, 2026 · France 24, Guardian TV, Al Jazeera +1- Alvaro B.C.: Father who came as unaccompanied minor detained by ICE after 12 yearsA man who entered the U.S. as an unaccompanied minor in 2014 built a life in California with his mother and two children. Arrested after a traffic violation, he was ordered released by a judge.May 19, 2026 · CourtListener
Orlin and Wendy H.R.: U.S. citizen toddler killed by caregiver after ICE deported his motherWendy Hernandez Reyes, a domestic violence survivor, was deported to Honduras after ICE denied her requests to take her toddler son Orlin with her. Left with a relative, Orlin was later killed.FL · May 16, 2026 · WKRG, Rolling Out, Pensacola News Journal +10
Hilda: Mother of U.S. citizens detained at immigration fingerprinting appointmentHilda Sucely R.M.D.E., a mother of two U.S. citizen children who had lived in the U.S. nearly 25 years, was arrested at a fingerprinting appointment. A court ordered her immediate release.Apr 9, 2026 · CourtListener, Arc Law Office
Ying-Hsi C.: South Australian mother faces deportation over visa paperwork errorYing-Hsi Chou, a mother of three in South Australia, faces deportation over a 2014 visa paperwork error. Her Australian husband and children would struggle to resettle in Taiwan, and a community petition backs her case.Murray Bridge, SA · Apr 9, 2026 · SBS Australia, Nine, The Australian +1- Leonel L.R.: Pipeline worker and father of U.S. citizen detained by ICEA pipeline worker and father of a U.S. citizen child, in the country since 2017, was detained after his earlier case had been closed. A court ordered his immediate release, finding the detention improper.Feb 12, 2026 · CourtListener
Tony S.: Family sells belongings after father deported to GuatemalaAnn Salas sold her family's belongings in Skokie before joining her husband, Antony Salas, who was deported to Guatemala last month after living in the U.S. for decades, with their young son.Skokie Ca · Jan 19, 2026 · Yahoo News, LinkedIn- Lazaro G.J.: Father of three U.S. citizen children held by ICE without bond hearingA father of three U.S. citizen children who has lived in the country over thirty years was detained in January 2026. A judge ordered a bond hearing within seven days or his release.Jan 19, 2026 · CourtListener
- Delsy F.M.: Honduran mother of two U.S. citizen children detained again after 11 yearsA Honduran mother of two U.S. citizen children, ages 5 and 9, was re-detained without a warrant after 11 years in St. Paul as their primary caregiver. A court ordered her immediate release.Jan 7, 2026 · CourtListener
- Mario C.A.: Father of four U.S. citizens detained by ICE, in U.S. since 1989A man who has lived in the U.S. since 1989, with four adult citizen children, was detained after an appeals board reversed his earlier protection from deportation. A judge denied his release request.Dec 16, 2025 · CourtListener
- Single father of six U.S. citizen children deported by ICEA single father of six U.S. citizen children was deported despite applying for a special visa and efforts to keep him with his family.Sep 15, 2025 · Spokesman-Review, MSN
Maribel L.: Mother with pending asylum appeal deported to Guatemala, 2-year-old left behindMaribel Lopez, a Guatemalan mother of three, was deported four days after agents raided the factory where she worked, despite a pending asylum appeal. Her 2-year-old son stayed behind with his older siblings.Sep 2025 · New York Times, The Independent
Pregnant mother and 2-year-old U.S. citizen daughter deported to Honduras by ICEA pregnant mother and her 2-year-old U.S. citizen daughter were deported to Honduras after she was given under two minutes to decide by phone, with attorneys saying consent was forced.Apr 28, 2025 · NBC News, AOL, Newser +1
U.S. citizen children deported to Honduras, child with cancer sent without medicationSeveral U.S. citizen children have been deported to Honduras with their undocumented mothers, including a 2-year-old and, in a Texas case, a 4-year-old and a 7-year-old with late-stage cancer sent without his medication.Apr 28, 2025 · PBS, Billboard Lifestyle, CNN +1Mother of four U.S. citizen children deported by ICEAn immigrant mother of four U.S. citizen children, including an infant, was deported, according to her lawyers.Apr 26, 2025 · Associated Press, New York Magazine, Boston Globe +1
U.S. citizen child with Stage 4 cancer deported to Honduras without medicationA 4-year-old U.S. citizen with Stage 4 cancer and his 7-year-old sister were deported to Honduras with their mother without his medication. Attorneys say the mother never consented or spoke with lawyers beforehand.Apr 25, 2025 · NBC News, AOL, Newser +1
Adolfo G.: Texas pastor shoved by ICE while driving daughters to school, deportedAdolfo Gutiérrez, a volunteer pastor and father of three who led a Texas church and ran a remodeling business, was detained while driving his daughters to school and later deported after 15 years in the state.“This man has unbelievable faith and has changed so much of my perspective in life,” — a fellow detaineeTX · Apr 4, 2025 · Newsweek, Church Leaders, La República +1