French Woman, 86, Detained by ICE After Moving to the US to Reunite with Long-Lost Love
An 86-year-old French woman, Marie-Thérèse, finds herself in a distressing situation after moving to the United States last year to rekindle a romance that began in the 1960s. Detained at an immigration enforcement center in Louisiana, her story has drawn attention and concern from both her family and the media.
The Heartfelt Journey
– Background: Marie-Thérèse, hailing from Nantes, France, moved to Alabama in 2022 after marrying her long-lost love, Billy, an American man she initially met while he was stationed at a NATO base in Saint-Nazaire during the 1960s.
– Reconnection: After decades apart, during which both had married and raised families, the pair reconnected in 2010. They visited each other with their spouses. Both were widowed by 2022, leading to a romantic relationship.
– Marriage and Relocation: The couple married last year. Following their wedding, Marie-Thérèse applied for a green card, seeking long-term residency in the US.
Legal Complications
– Detention Notice: Marie-Thérèse’s son raised the alarm when she was arrested in Anniston, Alabama, earlier in April. He described the shocking scene: They handcuffed her hands and feet like she was a dangerous criminal, he told French outlet Ouest-France.
– Immigration Status: The US Department of Homeland Security indicated that Marie-Thérèse entered the country in June 2025 but had overstayed her 90-day visa. However, her son claims she was waiting for her green card at the time of her detention.
– Billy’s Sudden Death: Tragically, Billy passed away in January, leaving Marie-Thérèse’s immigration status uncertain. Following his death, disputes over inheritance with Billy’s son escalated, reportedly resulting in intimidation tactics against her.
The Fight for Freedom
– Legal Representation: Marie-Thérèse sought legal assistance, but she was detained by ICE the day before her scheduled hearing. Her neighbors alerted her children, sparking immediate concern.
– Health Concerns: Marie-Thérèse suffers from heart and back issues, raising serious concerns about her well-being in detention. Her son described her as a fighter and emphasized the urgent need for her release, stating, Given her health, she won’t last a month in such conditions.
Involvement of French Authorities
– The French foreign ministry is now involved, and Marie-Thérèse has received a consular visit. Her son shared his frustration, stating her experience feels like a bad American film, with each day reminding him that this is a harsh reality.
Final Thoughts
Marie-Thérèse’s story highlights the complexities surrounding immigration enforcement in the US, particularly for vulnerable individuals. Her family’s primary goal remains clear: to secure her release from ICE detention and facilitate her return to France. The situation serves as a poignant reminder of the human stories interwoven with immigration policy and enforcement measures.