Undocumented Immigrant Who Gave Birth in the U.S. Escapes Immediate Deportation
“Custody has now been transferred to ICE, and she is currently waiting for a court date,” stated Homeland Security.
A Guatemalan immigrant who illegally crossed the U.S. border at eight months pregnant and gave birth in Arizona has avoided expedited deportation following intervention from the state’s governor, as reported by her lawyer and a federal official on May 3.
The 24-year-old woman informed her attorney, Luis Campos, that she was facing rapid deportation after entering the United States unlawfully. Campos claimed federal agents prevented him from visiting her in a Tucson hospital post-delivery on April 30.
This situation led Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, to reach out to both federal and local authorities.
“Governor Hobbs has clearly expressed her opposition to inhumane immigration enforcement policies,” a spokesperson for the governor told local news outlets.
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed on May 4 that Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents initially assisted the pregnant woman, “who illegally crossed the border near Tres Bellotas Ranch.”
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“CBP followed all laws and procedures. No rights were denied. Custody has since been transferred to ICE, and she is currently awaiting a court date. The child is with the mother,” the agency affirmed.
According to Campos, the Guatemalan national, referred to as “Erika,” fled a “violent situation” in her native country, as shared by her mother, who sought legal representation for her.
Campos mentioned he spoke with Erika on May 2, during which she disclosed that she had traveled for two days through the desert before being apprehended by U.S. immigration authorities approximately 50 miles south of Tucson, Arizona. He indicated she possesses the right to express fear of returning home and to seek asylum.
“I hope to receive news today or tomorrow regarding her release,” the lawyer stated.
He noted that immigration attorneys in Phoenix had offered him assistance at the request of Hobbs.
The Epoch Times has reached out for a comment from the White House.
“Having a U.S. citizen child does not provide immunity from our laws,” Homan remarked during his appearance on CBS News’ “Face the Nation” on April 27.
“If this is the message we send globally, women will continue to put themselves in danger to enter this country.”
Following his inauguration this year, President Donald Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border and intensified deportation operations.
Reuters contributed to this report.
