5-Year-Old Boy Detained by Immigration Officers Sparks Outcry in Minnesota

In a troubling incident in Columbia Heights, Minnesota, a 5-year-old boy and his father were taken by federal immigration agents, marking a disturbing trend of detentions in the area. This incident is the fourth such case involving local students in recent weeks, raising significant concerns among school officials and advocates.

Why It Matters

The detention of Liam Conejo Ramos highlights the increasing scrutiny of immigration enforcement in Minnesota, particularly in communities with high immigrant populations. As federal authorities ramp up operations, the emotional and psychological impact on families and children continues to draw criticism and provoke public outcry.

Key Developments

• Incident Overview: Liam Conejo Ramos was taken from a running car in his family’s driveway, sparking a backlash from local officials and community members.

• Asylum Status: The family has an active asylum case and had not received any orders for deportation prior to this incident.

• Government Response: Department of Homeland Security representatives assert that ICE did not target the child but rather sought to apprehend his father, who is in the U.S. illegally.

• Conditions in Detention: Reports indicate deteriorating conditions at the facility in Dilley, Texas, where Liam and his father are reportedly being held.

• Local Impact: The events have led to a notable drop in school attendance, with the district experiencing significant student absences in the wake of recent detentions.

Full Report

Incident Details

On Tuesday afternoon, Liam was apprehended alongside his father, Adrian Alexander Conejo Arias, as they arrived home from preschool. According to Zena Stenvik, the superintendent of Columbia Heights Public Schools, federal agents ordered the child to knock on the front door of his home to check for other occupants, effectively using the boy in their operation.

While speaking at a news conference, Stenvik questioned the rationale behind detaining a 5-year-old, emphasizing the incomprehensibility of classifying the child as a violent criminal. She indicated that another adult was present but was not allowed to take custody of Liam.

Government Statements

In a statement, Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin defended ICE’s actions, contending that the agency did not intentionally target the boy. She explained that the operation was focused on apprehending the boy’s father. McLaughlin noted that guardians have the option to either have their children removed with them or placed in the care of someone they designate.

Conditions for Detained Families

Attorney Marc Prokosch revealed that both Liam and his father were transferred to a family detention facility in Texas. During recent visits to the lockup, Leecia Welch from Children’s Rights reported worsening conditions, with numerous children suffering from illness and malnutrition.

Local Reaction

Vice President JD Vance addressed the community in Minneapolis, acknowledging the disturbing nature of the incident but clarifying that Liam was merely detained, not arrested. However, his comments did not touch upon the decision not to leave Liam with the adult present at the home during the operation.

Educators and advocates in Columbia Heights express concern over the emotional toll on students, with some describing Liam as a kind and loving child whose absence is felt deeply in the classroom.

Context & Previous Events

Liam’s case is not isolated; he is the fourth child from Columbia Heights Public Schools detained by ICE in a short span of time. This has contributed to a noticeable drop in school attendance, with reports of many children not attending classes in the last two weeks. The district, which serves approximately 3,400 students, comprises a significant number of families of immigrant backgrounds, highlighting the broader implications of immigration enforcement on community stability and children’s well-being.