A mother and daughter from Canada, who were detained for over two weeks at an immigration facility in Texas, were released on Thursday after posting bond. Tania Warner, speaking in a video sent to CBC News while still in her Dilley Immigration Processing Center tracksuit, expressed her relief and stated that it wouldn’t feel real until they were far away from the facility.
Tania, along with her seven-year-old daughter Ayla, had been living in the U.S. legally for the past five years with her husband, a U.S. citizen. At their bond hearing, it was argued by her immigration lawyer that all necessary documents were filed, and federal approval was granted to extend their stay.
The judge set their bond at $9,500 US, which is a payment to ensure their appearance at court. Despite not being considered a flight risk, Tania was required to wear an ankle monitor upon release.
Their detention occurred on March 14 at a state border patrol checkpoint in Sarita, Texas, after returning from a baby shower. Tania, originally from Penticton, B.C., was in the process of obtaining a green card, involving significant expenses and a criminal record check.
Initially held in McAllen, Texas, they were later transferred to a family detention center in Dilley. Tania criticized the conditions at the facilities and expressed dismay over other families facing similar challenges despite attempting to follow proper immigration procedures.
Now facing multiple hearings, Tania and Ayla await decisions on their future status in the U.S. or the possibility of deportation.