A controversial incident involving the detention of a 5-year-old Ecuadorian boy and his father in Minnesota has spotlighted ongoing debates about U.S. immigration policies. Conflicting accounts have emerged regarding whether the family was given a chance to ensure the child’s care was arranged before the father was detained.
Community members and school officials in the area claim that the boy was used by federal immigration officers as a ploy to make the mother answer the door of their home. Conversely, the Department of Homeland Security refutes this, labeling it an “abject lie” and stating that the father, Adrian Alexander Conejo Arias, left his son, Liam Conejo Ramos, in a vehicle as he attempted to flee.
The controversy arises only two weeks after an incident involving the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE officer in Minneapolis, which many saw as overreach, while the government described it as self-defense.
Currently, the father and son are held at a family detention center in Dilley, Texas. While federal officials claim the father entered the U.S. illegally in December 2024, details remain sparse. The family’s lawyer, however, indicates that there is an active asylum claim in progress, which may legally allow them to stay until a decision is made.
Accusations of Using the Child as ‘Bait’
Columbia Heights Public Schools Superintendent Zena Stenvik stated that officers instructed the child to knock on the door to lure the mother outside, describing it as using the child “as bait.” Despite this, the father reportedly advised the mother not to respond. School officials noted that the agents did not let other adults take care of the boy.
Conflicting Claims from ICE
ICE spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin denied allegations of targeting the child, emphasizing that officers were concerned for the child’s safety and tried to get the mother to take custody. According to her, officers respected the father’s decision for the child to stay with him.
Media Narrative Criticized by Officials
Greg Bovino, a Border Patrol Commander, criticized media portrayal of the event, while ICE’s Marcos Charles criticized the father for leaving the child unattended and highlighted efforts by officers to care for the child during the incident.
Detention Facilities Under Scrutiny
The family is housed in a Dilley, Texas detention center, which has drawn criticism for its conditions. Leecia Welch from Children’s Rights reported worsening conditions and extended detentions for children. Meanwhile, officials argue that the facilities provide adequate care and services for families.
Legal and Policy Considerations
While the family’s legal representative explores options to secure their release, the situation highlights complex policy issues. Trump administration guidelines stipulate that ICE should allow parents to arrange care for their children when detained, but the specifics of this case remain contested.
For more information on U.S. immigration policies, visit the ICE official website.
