Democratic Women’s Caucus Calls for Investigation into ICE Treatment of Pregnant Women
The Democratic Women’s Caucus has raised serious concerns regarding “medical neglect” under the Trump administration, particularly focusing on the tragic loss of a woman’s fetus. They are now pushing for an investigation into how women are treated in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody.
Recently, the Trump administration reversed guidelines established during the Biden era, which had outlined how to properly care for immigrants in custody, especially pregnant women.
“We are extremely worried about women’s healthcare, especially when it comes to access to maternal services while detained by ICE,” the Caucus expressed in a letter addressed to Secretaries of Homeland Security Christie Noem and Joseph Cuffari, along with other leaders within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The letter details instances of reported mistreatment, medical negligence, and abuse directed at women by ICE agents and contractors. “This behavior needs urgent attention and accountability,” they stated. “An immediate and comprehensive investigation is required into violations against women in ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) custody.”
DHS and Cuffari’s offices have not yet responded to requests for comments regarding these allegations.
The letter includes a reference to the case of Iris Dayana Monteroso Remus, who suffered the stillbirth of her child after being detained in Tennessee. She experienced pain and a lack of fetal movement yet waited three days to receive medical care.
After repeated requests, she was finally taken to the hospital on April 29, where she delivered a stillborn baby. Doctors attributed this loss to the absence of necessary prenatal care.
“We are calling for a transparent investigation regarding the circumstances surrounding Iris Dayana Monteroso Remus’ pregnancy loss, along with the broader issue of abuse affecting pregnant and postpartum women in ICE and CBP custody,” the lawmakers stated. They are requesting a detailed report on this case, accountability measures, and corrective actions.
The letter also inquires about what actions the administration has taken to ensure the safety of women in custody.
Under the Biden regime, immigration enforcement officers were advised against detaining pregnant or nursing women unless in exceptional situations. Moreover, pregnant women were to be housed in facilities suitable for their medical and mental health needs.
However, in May, the Trump administration eliminated these guidelines from CBP and also removed requirements for essential supports for nursing mothers, like diapers and baby formula.
“Your neglect for women’s health and safety isn’t an isolated issue. It’s part of a larger, systemic failure to treat women with the dignity, compassion, and basic healthcare they deserve,” the lawmakers concluded.
