Arrest Sparks International Concern
An 86-year-old French woman is being held at a detention facility operated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Louisiana, drawing concern from her family and French officials. Marie-Thérèse, originally from Nantes, was arrested in Alabama earlier this month while awaiting a legal hearing tied to her immigration status, The BBC reported.
Her son told French media she was handcuffed “like a dangerous criminal,” despite her age and health conditions, which include heart and back problems.
A Romance Decades in the Making
Marie-Thérèse moved to the U.S. in 2025 after marrying Billy, an American she first met in the 1960s when he was stationed in France with NATO. The couple lost touch for decades, later reconnecting in 2010 before eventually marrying after both were widowed.
Described as being “in love like teenagers,” the couple began a new life together in Alabama. Marie-Thérèse applied for a green card following their marriage.
Legal Dispute and Sudden Detention
Her situation became more complicated after Billy’s sudden death in January. Reports indicate a dispute arose between Marie-Thérèse and her stepson over inheritance. While there is no confirmed link, she was detained by ICE just one day before a scheduled court appearance related to her case.
Health Concerns and Diplomatic Response
The French government has since intervened, and Marie-Thérèse has received a consular visit. Her family is pushing for her release and return to France, citing concerns over her health and the conditions of detention.
Immigration Enforcement in Focus
Her detention comes amid expanded immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump, whose administration has prioritized deportations and increased ICE operations nationwide.
For her family, the ordeal feels surreal. “It’s like a bad American film,” her son said, as they continue efforts to secure her release.
For more on Trump’s anti-immigration agenda and its effects, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.