Argentine nanny working in U.S. arrested by ICE

Iliana Lick, a 30-year-old Argentine woman working as a nanny in the United States, was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at Philadelphia International Airport. The arrest occurred just weeks ago as she was preparing to board a flight to Kansas City to watch a soccer match.

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She never missed a hearing, never committed any crime, and never failed to pay her taxes. It was surprising that she was arrested.

Her boyfriend, Stephen Melchiorre, is actively working for her release, asserting that Lick entered the U.S. legally on a travel visa in September 2024 and has resided in Philadelphia. He stated she has always been law-abiding, never missed court dates, committed no crimes, and paid her taxes, expressing surprise at her arrest.

However, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) claims Lick entered the country on March 17, 2023, and overstayed her visa. The DHS clarified that Lick will remain in ICE custody pending the resolution of her immigration case, adding that work authorization or a pending application does not confer legal status in the U.S.

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The woman I love, Iliana, is being held in an ICE detention center while her immigration process continues.

Melchiorre described Lick as a beloved member of their community, emphasizing her role as a caregiver to his and other families' children. He launched a GoFundMe campaign to support her legal process, highlighting her peaceful nature, strong community ties in Philadelphia, and lack of criminal record. Lick's family and boyfriend are campaigning for her release, emphasizing her positive contributions and legal entry into the country.

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Lick will remain in ICE custody pending the resolution of her immigration process. It should be clarified that work authorization or a pending application does not confer legal status in the United States.