An 86-year-old French woman named Marie-Thérèse is currently detained at an immigration enforcement center in Louisiana, following her arrest in Anniston, Alabama, earlier this month for overstaying her visa.
Why it matters: The case highlights the harsh realities faced by undocumented immigrants in the U.S., particularly the elderly and vulnerable, and raises questions about the treatment of individuals in ICE custody.
Marie-Thérèse was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in early April 2026 after the Department of Homeland Security confirmed she overstayed her 90-day visa waiver.
Her situation has drawn international attention, with the French foreign ministry involved and providing consular support to the detainee.
Her family is advocating for her release, citing serious health concerns due to her heart and back problems, which could be exacerbated by detention conditions.
Driving the news: Marie-Thérèse's legal troubles began after her husband, Billy, passed away unexpectedly in January 2026. They had rekindled a romance from the 1960s and married in 2025.
Marie-Thérèse moved from Nantes, France, to Alabama to live with Billy after their marriage, applying for a green card that would grant her permanent residency.
Following Billy's death, an inheritance dispute arose with his son, who allegedly threatened Marie-Thérèse and cut off her utilities, leading to her detention.
She was arrested by ICE just a day before a scheduled hearing related to her legal status.
State of play: Marie-Thérèse's case reflects the broader implications of current immigration policies under the Biden administration.
ICE has seen its role expand significantly during the current administration's second term, with increased budgets and a focus on removing undocumented immigrants.
Marie-Thérèse's detention raises concerns about the treatment of elderly detainees, especially those with existing health issues.
Her family has expressed fears that the conditions of detention could pose a serious risk to her health, with her son stating, "She won't last a month in such conditions of detention."
The big picture: The immigration situation in the U.S. continues to be a contentious issue, with many advocating for reform to protect vulnerable populations.
Marie-Thérèse's story is emblematic of the struggles faced by many immigrants, particularly those who come to the U.S. seeking love, safety, and a new life.
Her case highlights the often-complex and bureaucratic nature of immigration processes, which can leave individuals in precarious situations.
The involvement of the French government indicates the international ramifications of U.S. immigration policies and their impact on foreign nationals.
What they're saying: Family members and advocates have voiced their concerns about Marie-Thérèse's treatment and the broader implications for immigration policy.
"They handcuffed her hands and feet like she was a dangerous criminal," her son told French media outlet Ouest-France, expressing disbelief over the situation.
He described his mother's resilience, stating, "She is a fighter and holding up well," but emphasized the urgency of her release.
The French foreign ministry has launched an inquiry into her case, indicating the seriousness with which they view her detention.
By the numbers: Marie-Thérèse's case is part of a larger trend of increased detentions by ICE.
Since the start of the Biden administration, ICE has ramped up operations, with a focus on removing undocumented individuals from the country.
In 2023 alone, ICE reported over 100,000 arrests, a stark increase compared to previous years.
Marie-Thérèse's detention adds to the growing number of elderly individuals caught up in immigration enforcement actions.
What's next: Marie-Thérèse's family and legal representatives are actively working to secure her release and repatriation to France.
The French foreign ministry's involvement suggests that diplomatic efforts may be employed to expedite her return home.
Legal proceedings related to her immigration status are pending, and her family hopes to resolve these issues swiftly.
Marie-Thérèse's case may prompt discussions on the treatment of elderly detainees in the U.S. immigration system, possibly influencing future policy changes.