Minnesota Father and Son Released from Texas Immigration Detention After Judge's Order
A five-year-old boy named Liam Conejo Ramos and his father, who were detained by immigration officers in Minnesota and subsequently held in a Texas facility, have been released and have returned to Minnesota. This development follows a judge's order that mandated their release, according to information from the office of Texas Representative Joaquin Castro.
Details of the Detention and Release
The two individuals were initially detained in a suburb of Minneapolis on January 20, 2026. Following their apprehension, they were transferred to a detention facility located in Dilley, Texas. Katherine Schneider, a spokesperson for Democratic Congressman Joaquin Castro, confirmed that the father and son have safely arrived back home. She detailed that Castro personally assisted in their return, picking them up from Dilley on Saturday night and escorting them to Minnesota on Sunday.
Controversy Surrounding the Case
Images of young Liam Conejo Ramos, wearing a bunny hat and a Spider-Man backpack while surrounded by immigration officers, have ignited significant public outrage. This incident has drawn attention to the Trump administration's enforcement actions in Minneapolis, with critics condemning the tactics used. Neighbors and school officials have alleged that federal immigration officers used the preschooler as "bait" by instructing him to knock on the door of his house, purportedly to prompt his mother to answer. However, the Department of Homeland Security has vehemently denied this account, labeling it an "abject lie." According to DHS statements, the father fled on foot and left the boy unattended in a running vehicle parked in their driveway, which led to the intervention by officers.
Broader Implications and Community Response
The case highlights ongoing debates over immigration enforcement practices in the United States, particularly concerning the treatment of families and children. The release of Liam and his father, while a relief to their supporters, underscores the complex and often contentious nature of immigration policies. Community members in Minnesota have expressed mixed reactions, with some celebrating the reunion while others call for greater scrutiny of ICE operations to prevent similar incidents in the future.
