Brazilian Woman Detained by ICE in California at Green Card Interviews

Juli Morrs was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in California last Saturday, in the middle of her Green Card interview. The case highlights growing concerns about immigrant families attempting to regularize their status in the United States.

The brazilian woman, was arrested during what was supposed to be a milestone in her path to permanent residency. Her husband, American citizen Dan Buckingham, said the couple expected approval of her documentation but were instead shocked by the arrest.

“They had a warrant and they just said, ‘Hey, sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but unfortunately we have to detain your wife for being unlawfully present in this country on an overstayed visa. I’ll never forget the look on her face,’” Buckingham recalled.

From Interview to Detention

The couple married last year and began the process for Juli’s permanent residency soon after. According to Buckingham, ICE agents informed them that she had overstayed her visa.

She was transferred to the Otay Mesa Detention Center in San Diego on the same day she expected to move forward in her legalization process.

Her attorney reported that dozens of immigrants have been detained in recent weeks during Green Card interviews in the region.

Waiting for a Hearing

Buckingham said he is able to speak with his wife, but visits are only allowed on Saturdays. The couple now awaits a hearing to request that Juli be released while her case proceeds.

Despite the traumatic situation, Buckingham insists they followed the right path:

“Lawyers are saying you should still go to the interview, and I would agree with that. Our lawyers told us getting that marriage approved is the most important.”

This case adds to a growing debate over immigration enforcement practices in the U.S., especially for families who are actively seeking legal status.