Overview
- A federal judge ordered Olivia Mabiala Andre released from ICE custody, setting a firm deadline for her discharge.
- The court found parts of her detention unlawful because officials did not determine at the outset that she posed a danger or was likely to flee.
- Andre has been held at the Dilley, Texas facility since November, her mother and siblings were freed in March, and an immigration judge issued her a removal order in February.
- Her attorneys are appealing asylum denials and a separate federal court has blocked deportation while that request is considered.
- Attention surged after Democratic lawmakers toured the site and called conditions inhumane, with Rep. Chellie Pingree and children’s educator Ms. Rachel amplifying Andre’s case as she struggled with depression in custody.