85-year-old Marie-Thérèse arrested by ICE: 'They just screamed'

The story of 85-year-old Marie-Thérèse Ross-Mahé, arrested and detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), highlights a harsh reality of American immigration policy, even for vulnerable individuals. Ross-Mahé, who had been living in Anniston, Alabama, with her late American husband, William Ross, was arrested in early April, reportedly after her 90-day visa expired. According to her account, the arrest was a humiliating experience, with ICE agents shouting rather than communicating.

Her situation was complicated by a dispute over her husband's estate. Following Ross's death, his two sons allegedly cut off Marie-Thérèse's access to utilities and finances, and allegedly redirected her mail. She claims this interference caused her to miss a crucial immigration appointment regarding her visa status. The article suggests that one of the sons, who works for the state, may have tipped off ICE about her expired visa, a claim he denies. The executor of the estate reportedly issued a temporary restraining order against the sons regarding the disposal of assets, indicating Marie-Thérèse's potential claim to half of her husband's property under Alabama law.

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They never talked, they just screamed.

From a Swedish perspective, as reported by Dagens Nyheter, this case raises questions about the application of immigration laws and the treatment of elderly individuals. The narrative emphasizes the emotional distress and perceived injustice experienced by Ross-Mahé, contrasting the aggressive tactics of ICE with her advanced age and vulnerable situation. The fact that she was eventually released and deported, rather than facing further legal proceedings, suggests a potential re-evaluation of her case, but the initial 16-day detention remains a point of concern regarding the process and the human cost involved. The story serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and potential hardships faced by individuals navigating the U.S. immigration system, particularly when entangled with family disputes.

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It was very humiliating. My hair wasn't even combed. I was just getting out of bed.