Arrest of Bruna Caroline Ferreira by ICE in Massachusetts

Bruna Caroline Ferreira, connected to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt through her nephew, was taken into custody by ICE in Massachusetts due to visa overstay issues.

Bruna, who shares an 11-year-old son with Karoline's brother Michael Leavitt, lives in New Hampshire.

Her attorney, Todd Pomerleau, is advocating for her release. Ferreira was apprehended by ICE agents in Revere, Massachusetts earlier this month while she was leaving her residence.

ICE Detainment Details

The Department of Homeland Security described Ferreira as a 'criminal illegal alien' from Brazil due to a prior battery arrest. Ferreira was originally admitted to the U.S. on a tourist visa, which expired on June 6, 1999, and she is now held at a Louisiana ICE facility pending deportation. According to policies under President Trump and Secretary Noem, all undocumented immigrants face deportation.

Pomerleau highlighted that Ferreira was on her way to pick up her son when detained, noting her good standing in her community.

Ferreira's Immigration History

Ferreira moved to the U.S. at age six, brought over by her parents. Her attorney argues against the criminal allegations and stresses her pursuit of legal residency.

Michael Leavitt expressed his primary concern for his son's safety and privacy amid these developments. Previously engaged to each other, Ferreira and Leavitt ended their relationship.

Her attorney states she was not informed of the reasons for her arrest. She has been moved between facilities across multiple states, which he labels as 'unconstitutional'. An online fundraiser claims Ferreira has legally maintained her status through DACA, a program shielding eligible immigrant youth from deportation.

Community and Legal Reactions

Revere City Councilor Juan Pablo Jaramillo emphasized the rising fear among immigrant families and called for restoring faith in the democratic process.

Pomerleau expects Ferreira's case to soon be heard by a federal judge in Louisiana. As of now, the White House press secretary's office and Karoline Leavitt have not commented on the situation regarding Ferreira's detention.