A woman connected to the family of a prominent political figure is facing deportation proceedings after being detained by immigration authorities.
The individual, identified as Bruna Caroline Ferreira, was taken into custody earlier this month in Revere, Massachusetts. Ferreira shares a child with the brother of Karoline Leavitt, who serves as White House Press Secretary. According to officials, Ferreira’s tourist visa expired in 1999.
In a statement, a spokesperson for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed Ferreira is being held at a processing center in Louisiana and is in removal proceedings. The spokesperson cited a policy that subjects all individuals unlawfully present in the United States to deportation. They also referenced a prior arrest for battery, though provided no further specifics.
Ferreira’s legal representative has challenged that characterization. Attorney Todd Pomerleau stated his client has no criminal record and demanded evidence of any charges. Public records searches by a Boston-based media outlet reportedly found no criminal charges filed against Ferreira in Massachusetts.
A fundraising effort organized by Ferreira’s sister describes her as having been brought to the U.S. as a child in 1998 and notes she has maintained her status through the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. The campaign asserts she has built a stable life and is known for her character and work ethic.
Sources familiar with the family situation indicate the child primarily resides with the father in New Hampshire and that Ferreira and Leavitt have not been in contact for several years.
The case has attracted attention on social media, where some commentators have highlighted the apparent contrast between the personal family circumstance and the political posture of the administration Leavitt represents. Others have questioned the proceedings, arguing that individuals complying with programs like DACA should not face deportation.
The situation underscores the complex and often personal realities within the nation’s immigration system.
