French Government Advocates for Release of 86-Year-Old Detained by ICE

The French government is advocating for the release of 86-year-old Marie-Thérèse Helene Ross, who has been detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the United States. Ross was arrested at her home in Anniston, Alabama, on April 1, 2023, for overstaying her visa. She had recently moved to the United States after marrying William Ross, a former US Army captain, who passed away earlier this year. The situation surrounding Ross is part of a larger, contentious narrative regarding the aggressive tactics employed by ICE under the Trump administration's anti-immigration policies. Thousands of individuals have been affected, with many facing deportation. Critics have condemned the operations for being indiscriminate and often violent, targeting vulnerable populations, including minors and the spouses of military personnel who previously had more lenient immigration considerations. In January, significant protests erupted in Minneapolis against ICE's actions, leading to the tragic deaths of two individuals, highlighting the intense emotions and divisions surrounding immigration enforcement practices in the U.S. Marie-Thérèse's family has reported a deeply concerning lack of communication from ICE. They only learned of her arrest after a visit from a French diplomat, who confirmed her detention. The family described her treatment upon arrest, stating that she was handcuffed at both hands and feet, akin to the treatment of a dangerous criminal. According to information from the U.S. Department of Defense, Ross entered the United States on a visa that allowed her a stay of 90 days. However, she inadvertently overstayed her visa, leading to her detention. Rodolphe Sambou, the French consul in New Orleans, has met with Ross twice, and the French government is actively working on securing her release, especially considering her age and health condition, which her family fears may not withstand the conditions of detention for long. Marie-Thérèse's journey to the U.S. began when she reconnected with William Ross, a former soldier she had met during her youth while working at a NATO base in France. Their reunion, facilitated by social media, led to their marriage and her relocation to the U.S. last June. Despite being married, Ross had not yet obtained permanent residency at the time of her arrest. This case sheds light on the complexities of immigration law, the contentious role of ICE, and the human stories intertwined with the policies affecting those seeking a new life in the United States. As the French government steps in to advocate for one of its citizens, it underscores the urgent need for reforms and humane treatment within immigration systems. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2