Guatemalan Woman Detained After Giving Birth in Tucson Hospital

TUCSON, Arizona — A Guatemalan woman, identified only as Erika, was taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) shortly after giving birth at Tucson Medical Center on Saturday. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by immigrants in the United States.

Erika had been wandering alone in the Arizona desert for two days while eight months pregnant before being apprehended by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents on Monday, according to her attorney, Luis Campos. She crossed into the U.S. from Mexico near Tres Bellotas Ranch, approximately 120 kilometers southwest of Tucson.

After being detained, she gave birth at the hospital on Wednesday night, with federal agents stationed outside her hospital room. Following her release, Campos stated that Erika will undergo removal proceedings.

Erika initially faced expedited deportation, a process that allows federal agents to remove individuals quickly from the country. However, she was later issued a Notice to Appear, allowing her to present her case before an immigration judge.

“There was no respect for due process,” Campos told CNN. He claimed he was denied access to Erika for days, infringing on her right to counsel as protected by the Fifth Amendment.

A statement from CBP confirmed that Erika crossed the border illegally. The spokesperson added that prior to receiving her Notice to Appear, she did not have the right to an attorney in immigration proceedings.

The local community exerted considerable pressure on federal authorities to change their approach to Erika’s case. Following this intervention, Campos expressed hopes for a successful outcome as he prepares to meet with Erika, who is now free in Phoenix.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Tucson Medical Center declined to comment on the situation due to privacy laws. The Arizona Governor’s Office stated that it is actively working with local and federal officials to gather more information, voicing a commitment to protect the constitutional rights of all residents.

Erika’s custody was transferred to ICE on Saturday morning. Campos indicated that Erika seeks asylum in the U.S. due to fears of returning to violence in Guatemala. “That is what we wanted from the beginning… a simple opportunity to present her case,” Campos said.

Erika’s story comes amid broader immigration policies enacted by the Trump administration, emphasizing the urgent need for reform in treating vulnerable populations.