Family of Deported 2-Year-Old U.S. Citizen Dismisses Lawsuit
The family of a 2-year-old U.S. citizen, who was deported to Honduras with her mother, has decided to voluntarily dismiss their lawsuit against the Trump administration. This information was confirmed by attorney Gracie Willis, representing the family, in an interview with ABC News.
Seeking Space for Reflection
According to Willis, the family is taking a step back to reflect on their situation. “Given the traumatizing experiences the families have been through, they are taking a step back to have full discussions about all their options, the safety and well-being of their children, and the best ways to proceed so the harms they have suffered can be fully addressed,” she stated.
Background of the Case
Last month, during a routine immigration check-in in New Orleans, the toddler was detained along with her mother and sister, who did not possess legal status in the United States. After the child’s father learned of their detention, he informed immigration officials of the child’s citizenship, asserting that she should not be subject to deportation.
Judicial Response and Deportation
Despite legal intervention, the child and her family were deported before the court could effectively respond to a habeas petition or a motion for a temporary restraining order. U.S. District Judge Terry Doughty expressed concerns during this process, suggesting the possibility that the administration may have acted without adequate legal justification.
Government’s Position
In legal arguments communicated by the Department of Justice, government representatives maintained that it was in the best interests of the minor to remain in the legal custody of her mother. They further argued that, as a U.S. citizen, she was not at “risk of irreparable harm.” After the dismissal of the lawsuit, Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin emphasized that claims regarding the deportation of U.S. citizens by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) were “false and irresponsible.”
Next Steps for the Family
With the dismissal of the lawsuit, the family is now contemplating their next steps and the potential options available to them. Attorney Willis reiterated their need for time to evaluate their legal standing and family welfare.
This case highlights distressing complexities surrounding immigration law, particularly in situations affecting U.S. citizens and their families. Continued discussions and evaluations are imperative for determining an appropriate and just resolution.