Daniela is a hardworking, responsible, and deeply kind person who has always done everything asked of her. She shows up. She follows the rules. She believes in doing things the right way. When she was required to attend her routine ICE check-in, she didn’t hesitate. As a law-abiding person, she went exactly as instructed—never imagining that it would end with her being taken into custody without explanation and sent to a detention center. In a single moment, her world—and the world of everyone who loves her—was turned upside down.
Within 24 hours, her family and friends scrambled to find help. We were able to connect with Amica Center for Immigration Rights, they filed a habeas corpus petition on her behalf. A habeas corpus filing is a powerful legal action that challenges the legality of someone’s detention. It requires the government to justify why a person is being held and is meant to protect individuals from unlawful or unjust confinement. Once filed, it should have prevented Daniela from being transferred out of Maryland while a judge reviewed her case. But despite that protection, she was moved the very next day. At first, we were told she had been transferred to California. Then, after 24 long hours of silence—24 hours of fear, confusion, and not knowing where she was—we learned she had actually been sent to Louisiana. Imagine the heartbreak of not knowing where your loved one is, not being able to speak to them, not knowing if they are safe.
Right now, a judge has been assigned to Daniela's case. We are also working urgently to retain a lawyer, because having legal representation is the only reliable way to communicate with her and track her location. Without an attorney, it becomes nearly impossible to advocate effectively for her rights. The financial burden of this fight is overwhelming. Legal fees, filing costs, and the ongoing costs of detention add up quickly. Once Daniela is returned to Maryland—a process that could take up to 30 days—she will need strong, experienced legal representation to continue fighting her case.
Daniela is not just a case number. She is a daughter, a friend, a loved one. She believes in doing things right way and has an amiable personality. She is also humble and loved by all who meet her. She is someone who followed the rules and trusted the system. Now she needs us. We are asking for your help to bring her home and to ensure she has the legal support she deserves. Every donation, no matter the amount, will go directly toward legal expenses and the fight to reunite her with her family. If you are unable to give, please consider sharing her story. Your support—financial, emotional, and communal—means more than words can express. Thank you for standing with Daniela and for helping us fight for justice, dignity, and due process.