Controversial Detention of Young Boy by ICE
Democratic Senator Tammy Duckworth from Illinois has voiced strong criticism against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for the detention of a five-year-old boy, Liam Ramos, alongside his undocumented father. Duckworth claims that this was an unnecessary action taken after the child’s mother allegedly refused to be apprehended.
In a post on social media featuring a picture of Liam, Duckworth stated, “President Trump’s ICE took this bright, happy 5-year-old from my driveway.” She further highlighted that the child was sent 1,300 miles away to a Texas detention facility, expressing concern over his health and well-being, asserting, “Liam is not a criminal. We want him released.”
In response, Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security, shared a statement from Dr. Sean Conley, Acting Director of DHS Health and Safety Services. The statement indicated that a pediatric examination found no significant medical issues with Liam.
Dr. Conley elaborated that it is standard practice to ensure medical care for individuals in ICE custody from the onset, which includes various screenings and access to emergency medical services when needed. He noted that the safety and well-being of individuals in custody is a top priority for ICE, mentioning the provision of meals for detainees, with special considerations for children.
Senator Duckworth commented on the situation, stating, “It is cruel to detain children like this,” and insisted that the best outcome for Liam would be to reunite him with his mother.
Liam was taken into custody on January 20 in a suburban area of Minneapolis alongside his father, Adrian Alexander Conejo Arias. Reports indicate that Conejo attempted to evade ICE agents who were attempting to take him into custody, leaving Liam momentarily alone after walking home from kindergarten.
ICE agents stayed with Liam while others pursued Conejo, who was apprehended shortly after. The DHS noted their attempts to take custody of Liam from his mother at home, but she refused to accept custody, despite assurances from officers that she would not be taken into custody herself.
According to DHS, Conejo had illegally entered the U.S. in December 2024 and had been released under the Biden administration’s policies. The family’s legal representative stated that Conejo has a pending refugee claim which could enable him to stay in the country. A federal judge has temporarily intervened to prevent the deportation of both Conejo and Liam.
