ICE agents in Minnesota detained five-year-old Liam Ramos after his father’s asylum hearing, sparking controversy.
ICE Detention of Young Child Sparks Outcry
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents detained five-year-old Liam Ramos in Minnesota on Tuesday afternoon, shortly after his father picked him up from preschool. Agents arrived at the family home, according to Zena Stenvik, a curator with the Columbia Heights Public School District.
Stenvik questioned the rationale, stating, “Why detain a five-year-old? You can’t tell me this child was deemed a brutal criminal.” She alleged the child was used as “bait” to allow officers entry into the home.
The family reportedly complies with the law and is undergoing asylum proceedings. No deportation order has been issued against them.
DHS: Child Was Not the Target
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) countered that the child was not ICE’s target. Agents were attempting to detain the father, who fled, leaving his son behind.
A DHS spokesperson stated, “Due to the child’s safety, one of our officers remained with him.” Detainees are asked whether accompanying children should go with them or be left with designated caregivers.
17-Year-Old Also Detained
The Columbia Heights Public School District reported that at least four minors were detained by ICE on Tuesday, including a 17-year-old. CBS News stated he was pulled from a vehicle by masked agents on his way to school.