In a significant immigration enforcement action, United States federal authorities have detained Bruna Caroline Ferreira, a relative of White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. The Brazilian national was taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials in Revere, Massachusetts, and is currently being held at a detention facility in Louisiana.
The Immigration Case Details
Bruna Ferreira, described by immigration officials as a criminal illegal alien from Brazil, faces removal proceedings after allegedly overstaying her tourist visa. According to Department of Homeland Security records, her visa expired in June 1999, more than two decades ago.
The detained woman holds a significant family connection as the mother of Jean-Pierre's 11-year-old nephew. Since his birth, the child has lived full-time in New Hampshire with his father, Michael Leavitt, who is Jean-Pierre's brother.
Family Concerns and Legal Battle
Michael Leavitt expressed deep concern about his son's wellbeing following Ferreira's arrest. While choosing not to speak on camera to protect his son's privacy, he emphasized that the boy's safety and emotional health remain his primary focus. He acknowledged that despite the child living with him and his stepmother, Ferreira has maintained an active relationship with her son.
Ferreira was arrested while driving to pick up her son from New Hampshire, adding another layer of complexity to the family situation. Her lawyer, Todd Pomerleau, vehemently disputes the official characterization of his client.
Legal Defense and Counterclaims
Pomerleau asserts that Ferreira entered the United States legally and is actively pursuing her green card application. "Bruna has no criminal record whatsoever. I don't know where that is coming from. Show us the proof. There's no charges out there. She's not a criminal, illegal alien," Pomerleau told News 9.
The attorney is fighting for her release from custody, arguing that she shouldn't be incarcerated hours away from her family and child. He described Ferreira as "a great mom" and acknowledged Michael Leavitt as being "a pretty good dad" from what he has learned.
Family History and Support Efforts
According to her sister, Graziela Dos Santos Rodrigues, Ferreira was brought to the United States by their parents in December 1998 when she was just a child, entering the country legally with a visa. Rodrigues has created a GoFundMe page seeking to raise $30,000 to cover legal fees and related expenses.
"Since then, she has done everything in her power to build a stable, honest life here," Rodrigues wrote on the fundraising page. "Anyone who knows Bruna knows the kind of person she is. She is hardworking, kind, and always the first to offer help when someone needs it."
The family emphasizes that Ferreira's absence has been particularly painful for her 11-year-old son, Michael Leavitt Junior, who reportedly hopes daily that his mother will return home in time for the holiday season.
ICE records indicate that this isn't Ferreira's first encounter with law enforcement, as she was previously arrested for battery. The case continues to develop as legal proceedings move forward and the family mobilizes support through their online fundraising campaign.
