Ester Soliman-Ramos, a woman from Pennsylvania who moved to the U.S. from the Philippines 25 years ago, has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). She was in the process of applying for a green card, according to a GoFundMe page raising money for her legal fees.
Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Homeland Security Secretary of Public Affairs, told Newsweek that Soliman-Ramos has a criminal history, including theft and driving without a license. She said, “If you break the law, you will face the consequences. Criminal illegal aliens are not welcome in the U.S.”
Why This Matters
President Trump has focused on deporting undocumented immigrants, especially those with criminal records. Since returning to office in January, his administration has increased immigration enforcement. Some Americans, however, are questioning the policy after reports showed people with minor or no criminal records were also being targeted.
Soliman-Ramos’ Story
Soliman-Ramos and her family legally immigrated to the U.S. 25 years ago. Her husband passed away in 2015, leaving her immigration status unclear. She started applying for a green card last year when her youngest daughter, a U.S. citizen, turned 21 and could sponsor her.
Earlier this year, she received a notice to join an “Alternatives to Detention” program on August 4. When she went to the appointment, she was detained by ICE and now may face deportation. ICE records show she is being held at Clinton County Correctional Facility in Pennsylvania.
The GoFundMe has raised more than $37,000 to help her family pay for legal representation.
Reactions
Sanjee, Soliman-Ramos’ daughter, posted on Facebook: “My mom was recently detained by ICE. She has lived in the U.S. for over 25 years, and we were finally in the process of getting her green card when she was detained.”
Pennsylvania state Representative Ismail Smith-Wade-El wrote: “Help the Soliman family stay together! Ester’s immigration status became unclear after her husband passed away. Please help if you can.”
Local advocacy groups also shared support, urging people to donate and help the family fight for Ester’s release.
What’s Next?
The next steps in Soliman-Ramos’ case have not been announced. Federal authorities have not commented further.
