The El Gamal family, an Egyptian mother and her five children, arrived back at their home in Colorado on Wednesday after a prolonged ordeal with U.S. immigration authorities. Their attorney, Eric Lee, accused the Trump administration of 'kidnapping' after the family was re-arrested shortly after a federal judge ordered their release.
Background of the Case
The family was initially arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in June 2024 following an attack by the children's father, Mohammed Soliman, against Israeli hostage supporters in Colorado. Soliman, who the family claims is estranged, was charged with federal hate crimes. The El Gamal family and their lawyers have repeatedly stated they had no knowledge of the attack.
Detention and Health Concerns
Held at the South Texas Family Residential Center in Dilley, Texas, the family became the longest-detained residents of that facility. During their detention, Hayam El Gamal suffered from unresolved health issues, including a growth on her chest. Despite pleading for weeks, she was only taken to the emergency room after a medical emergency, and further tests were allegedly denied by ICE.
Judge's Order and Re-Arrest
On April 23, a federal judge in Texas ordered the family's release. ICE complied, and the family was freed, prompting celebration from lawmakers like Senator Dick Durbin. However, just two days later, hours after they returned to Colorado, ICE re-arrested them, threatening deportation. The family's attorneys called this a violation of the court order, describing it as 'kidnapping.'
Legal Scramble and Resolution
The family was placed on a plane bound for Michigan, but a Colorado federal judge intervened, ordering ICE to halt any deportation attempts. The plane turned around, and the family was released from custody. Attorney Eric Lee confirmed their return to Colorado on April 29.
Broader Context
This incident is part of a pattern where the Trump administration has been criticized for overstepping court orders in immigration cases. Notably, Venezuelan and Salvadorian men were quickly deported to a notorious prison in El Salvador last year despite court orders.
