Judge Stops ICE from Deporting 5-Year-Old Liam Conejo Ramos and Father
A recent ruling by a U.S. District Court has temporarily halted the deportation of 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his father, Adrian Alexander Conejo Ramos. This decision came amid a controversial Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation that sparked national outrage.
Background of the Case
Liam and his father were apprehended in Minnesota on January 20, 2026, during a widely publicized ICE operation. The arrest took place shortly after Liam returned home from preschool. Images capturing the event showed Liam wearing a blue bunny hat with a school backpack, which quickly went viral, drawing significant public indignation.
Details of the Detention
The father-son duo is currently detained at the Dilley ICE detention center in Texas, established to accommodate families with children accused of immigration law violations. According to reports from CBS News, the government cannot deport them immediately due to pending immigration court cases.
Legal Developments
Judge Fred Biery issued an order that prevents ICE from deporting Liam and his father until further notice. Additionally, he blocked any transfer of the family from the Western District of Texas during the ongoing litigation.
Contentions Against ICE
- Claim of Illegal Residency: Adrian Conejo Ramos, the father, is identified as an Ecuadorian immigrant allegedly residing in the U.S. illegally.
- Nature of the Arrest: ICE officials stated that the focus of the operation was on the father, not the child.
- Escape Attempt: Reports suggested Adrian attempted to flee, leaving Liam behind in a vehicle during winter.
Community Reaction
Witnesses and community members expressed their horror over the incident. A local pastor, Sergio Amezcua, mentioned that Liam’s mother was terrified and was encouraged by neighbors not to surrender to ICE officials. The community rallied around the family during this distressing time.
Conclusion
This case continues to evolve, highlighting the complexities of immigration enforcement in the U.S. The temporary restraining order offers the Conejo Ramos family some reprieve as they navigate their legal proceedings.
