Overview
- Elvia Benitez Suarez was taken into custody during a March 10 check-in in Milwaukee and is now held at the Campbell County Detention Center in Kentucky.
- An immigration judge granted her cancellation of removal in December, but a government appeal has kept her case active.
- Her attorney says she complied with all requirements, poses no risk, was handcuffed and shackled, and is seeking release due to reported medical distress.
- DHS said she is in the country illegally and promoted voluntary departure through the CBP Home App, offering $2,600 and a free flight, adding that detention is a choice.
- Her family and advocates launched a public campaign for her release as she was moved through multiple facilities and her four U.S.-citizen children struggle with the separation.