FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Dozens took to the federal courthouse in Fresno on Friday to demand the release of a Firebaugh mom they say ICE detained last week.
“She was doing everything right,” Democratic Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria said about Maria Caballero. “She followed the rules. She showed up, she trusted the process.”
Caballero was working to adjust her status after entering the country unlawfully without the proper documents.
“Her appointment was abruptly interrupted by ICE agents, and she was taken away in handcuffs,” Assemblywoman Soria said.
Caballero’s son, Omar, is asking for his mother’s release. She is the primary caretaker of a child.
“We were facing our biggest nightmare, the separation of our beloved family,” Omar Almaraz said. “To say that our mom is the foundation of our family is an understatement.”
Caballero is currently at the California City Detention Facility, which officials reactivated this year as President Trump’s immigration crackdown plays out across the state.
RELATED: Congressman Jim Costa calls for answers from ICE on detaining Pismo’s manager
“It’s very lifeless. It’s gray. Barbed wire everywhere. Gates everywhere. Guards everywhere,” Steven Rodriguez told Action News.
He visited his mom, Leticia, at the facility last weekend after he said ICE detained her during a Green Card interview.
They spoke over the phone with a glass barrier separating them.
“She was happy to see us, and I think that’s what she wants – She wants to see us,” Rodriguez said. “But she’s hurting and she’s missing us.”
What lies ahead for Caballero and Leticia is now unclear. A notice online states that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement cannot respond to questions due to the government shutdown.
“We have not had any communication with any immigration officials,” Assemblywoman Soria said.
Republican lawmakers have told Action News that they would welcome the return of deported immigrants as long as they follow the legal process to re-enter the country.
For news updates, follow Gabe Ferris on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Copyright © 2025 KFSN-TV. All Rights Reserved.