British Tourist Detained by ICE for Six Weeks Despite Valid Visa
A British grandmother, Karen Newton, 65, was detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for six weeks during a road trip holiday in the United States, even though she possessed a valid tourist visa and passport. The incident has prompted her to issue a stark warning to other tourists considering travel to the US while President Donald Trump is in office.
Holiday Nightmare Begins at Canadian Border
Karen Newton and her husband Bill, 66, from Hertfordshire, UK, embarked on their holiday in late July 2025, exploring states including California, Nevada, Wyoming, and Montana. Their trip was intended to continue into Canada, but on 26 September 2025, Canadian officials informed them they lacked the proper paperwork to bring their car across the border. When they attempted to return to Montana, US border control officials discovered that Bill's US visa had expired.
Despite her husband's paperwork issues, Ms Newton's B2 tourist visa was still valid, and her British passport was up-to-date. She emphasized that she has no criminal record. However, she found herself handcuffed, shackled, and sleeping on the floor of a locked cell before being transported 12 hours overnight to an ICE detention centre.
Detention Conditions and Legal Claims
The couple were initially held at the Sweetgrass border patrol station in Montana for three days, sharing a cell without beds and sleeping on mats under foil blankets. Ms Newton claimed she was told she was "guilty by association" for helping her husband pack, which allegedly violated the terms of her visa. "It just went from crazy to ridiculous. It felt like they just wanted an excuse to detain me," she stated.
In response, an ICE spokesperson told The Guardian that bonuses for officers are not based on arrest or detention numbers, and pay is administered according to federal policy. The spokesperson added that ICE officers enforce immigration laws, not for financial gain.
Family Efforts and Government Shutdown Complications
The couple's son contacted the UK Foreign Office for assistance but was informed that his parents could not be released due to an ongoing federal government shutdown. Ms Newton noted that she observed people leaving the detention centre daily, and reports indicated ICE continued detaining and deporting thousands during the shutdown. A UK Foreign Office spokesperson confirmed they provided assistance and were in contact with local authorities.
Release and Aftermath
On 6 November 2025, Ms Newton and her husband were released and escorted to Tacoma airport in handcuffs and shackles. Reflecting on the ordeal, she warned other tourists: "Don't go – not with Trump in charge. It's totally out of control over there. There's no accountability. They don't seem to need a reason for detaining you."
This case highlights broader concerns about immigration enforcement practices under the Trump administration, with Ms Newton's experience serving as a cautionary tale for international travelers.
