ICE Holds Brazilian Linked to White House Press Secretary in Removal Case

Overview

• Bruna Caroline Ferreira was detained on Nov. 12 in Revere, Massachusetts, and is now held at an ICE processing center in southern Louisiana in active removal proceedings, according to DHS.
• DHS says she entered on a B2 tourist visa that required departure by June 6, 1999, and lists a prior arrest for assault on her record.
• Attorney Todd Pomerleau disputes those claims, says Ferreira previously held DACA status, is pursuing lawful permanent residency, and denies she has a criminal record.
• Ferreira was stopped while driving to pick up her 11-year-old son, who lives full-time with his father, Michael Leavitt, in New Hampshire; the child and mother have not spoken since the detention, and Karoline Leavitt has not commented and is reported to have had no recent contact with her.
• A verified GoFundMe organized by Ferreira’s sister has raised about $18,000 toward a $30,000 goal for legal costs, and a DHS official has reiterated that DACA does not confer legal status or automatic protection from deportation.