TORONTO — A Canadian mother who was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Texas says her case is in a 'deportation freeze' and she is being left without answers.
Detained in Texas
Tania Warner, a Canadian citizen, was taken into custody by ICE officials in Texas earlier this year. Her family says she was detained without explanation and has since been held in a facility with limited access to legal counsel or communication with her loved ones.
In an interview, Warner described the experience as 'an information freeze.' She stated, 'I have no idea what is happening with my case. I am just sitting here waiting, and no one will tell me anything.'
Family Seeks Answers
Warner's family in Canada has been actively seeking answers from both Canadian and U.S. authorities. They have contacted the Canadian consulate and local representatives but say they have received little information about her status or the reasons for her detention.
Her mother, who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed frustration: 'We just want to know why she is being held and what we can do to bring her home. She is a Canadian citizen with no criminal record.'
Legal Experts Weigh In
Immigration lawyers say that a 'deportation freeze' can occur when there is a backlog in immigration courts or when a case is under review. However, they note that detainees have the right to due process and should be informed of the charges against them.
Attorney Sarah Jenkins, who specializes in cross-border immigration cases, explained: 'A freeze means that no action is being taken on the case, but the individual remains in custody. This can be extremely distressing for the detainee and their family.'
Jenkins added that Canadian citizens detained abroad have the right to consular assistance, which can help facilitate communication and legal support.
Canadian Government Response
Global Affairs Canada confirmed that they are aware of Warner's case and are providing consular services. In a statement, a spokesperson said: 'We are in contact with local authorities and are providing assistance to the Canadian citizen and her family. Due to privacy considerations, we cannot disclose further details.'
However, Warner's family says that consular support has been minimal and that they have not received a clear timeline for her release or deportation.
Community Support
Warner's case has garnered attention from Canadian advocacy groups, who are calling for greater transparency and support for Canadians detained abroad. A petition has been launched urging the Canadian government to intervene and ensure Warner's rights are protected.
Her family remains hopeful that she will be released soon. 'We are not giving up,' her mother said. 'We will keep fighting until she is home.'
