In a shocking twist of fate, Canadian mother detained Cynthia Olivera — whose husband voted for Donald Trump — was arrested by ICE during a routine green card interview in Chatsworth, California, on June 13, 2025. Initially brought to the U.S. at age 10, she returned legally in 1999 and lived in Los Angeles for over 25 years, raising three U.S.-born children while working and paying taxes. Despite long-term work authorization under the Biden administration, her status caught up to her, leading to her current detention. Her family’s reaction has turned from political support to heartbreak: “I want my vote back,” lamented Francisco Olivera.
The Arrest That Shattered a Family
Cynthia Olivera attended her green card interview dressed professionally and prepared for what she believed would be the culmination of years of effort. But after entering the USCIS building, she was arrested by ICE, placed in handcuffs, and transferred two days later to an ICE facility in El Paso, Texas, while awaiting deportation. The tragic irony? Her husband had expected the administration to target violent criminals—not residents like her. “We feel totally blindsided, betrayed,” Francisco told KGTV, regret tearing through his voice.
Why the Canadian Mother Detained Sparks Outrage
- Re‑entry felony charge: ICE classifies her 1999 return after expedited removal as a felony, which allows detention despite her clean record and decades of U.S. residency.
- Policy contradictions: The Trump administration’s public stance targets only criminal immigrants, yet long‑term non‑violent residents like Cynthia are being swept up.
- Cross‑border limitations: The Canadian government declined to intervene, stating each country controls its borders.
Living the American Dream—Until Now
Cynthia is no fugitive.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrived in U.S. | Age 10 (circa 1990), from Toronto |
| Expedited removal | 1999 (age 19), returned shortly after |
| Residency | 25 years in LA, no criminal record |
| Work authorization | Legal under Biden administration |
| Family | Married U.S. citizen, three children born in U.S. |
Despite years of contributions, she now faces deportation as an “illegal alien.” Her husband’s remorse burns: “I want my vote back.”
A Trump‑Voting Family Reconsiders
In November 2024, Francisco voted for Trump, confident his family wouldn’t be impacted. Cynthia even supported some aspects of the campaign’s immigration agenda—until reality struck. Now she sits in detention, and Francisco publicly lamented his choice: “My wife … was a strong believer in what was going to happen the next four years.” His regret echoes the warnings of immigration advocates who argued policy shifts would impact more than public perception—they’d strike families.
What Happens Next to the Canadian Mother Detained?
Cynthia has signed away the right to bond and asylum and consented to expedited removal. She has offered to pay her way back to Canada; her husband even spoke of flying with her to Mississauga to arrange her return. But ICE remains silent on a timeline, and Canada’s hands are tied. Until ICE initiates her transfer, she remains at the El Paso facility.
Key Developments Summary
- Canadian mother detained: arrested at USCIS interview June 13 in Chatsworth, CA.
- Husband’s regret: “I want my vote back.”
- Legal charges: felony for re‑entry after deportation.
- ICE silence: detention ongoing in Texas, deportation forthcoming.
- Canadian response: no intervention; travel options being arranged privately.
What It Reveals About Immigration Policy
This case starkly highlights how current U.S. immigration enforcement extends beyond criminals, ensnaring individuals with long-standing community ties and legal standing. The Trump administration’s policy has triggered deeper debates about targeted deportations versus blanket enforcement and whether vulnerable families should bear the burden.
Bottom Line
The Canadian mother detained crisis underscores painful irony: political support doesn’t guarantee protection. As ICE presses ahead, the Olivera family faces heartbreak, loss, and uncertainty. Their journey—marked by love, regret, and bureaucratic entanglement—may change how many voters view immigration policy.
Stay tuned for the latest developments and exclusive updates on Canadian mother detained. Share your thoughts in the comments—do you feel policy has gone too far?