Colombian Woman Detained by ICE in Texas Falls Victim to Fake Bond Scam

A pregnant Colombian woman remains detained in Texas after her family paid over $3,000 to a supposed lawyer. María Alejandra Gómez-Quiroz, 21 years old, has been in immigration custody at the Dilley detention center for more than 40 days. Her family believed a letter bearing ICE letterhead confirmed approval of an immigration bond. However, the young woman was never released and her relatives discovered that the document was allegedly fraudulent.

How did the alleged scam against the family occur?

Gómez-Quiroz’s family pooled their savings to hire a person claiming to be an immigration lawyer. The supposed representative received more than $3,000 and then delivered a notification with ICE and DHS logos. The letter claimed that a court had approved the bond and that payment was made through an authorized mechanism.

According to ABC News, the document stated that the immigration bond was already covered. Several days passed, but the young woman remained detained at the Dilley residential center. «It was a scam,» declared Kelly Ocampo, the woman’s sister, to the American media outlet.

The family stated that they used all their savings to try to obtain the young woman’s freedom. Additionally, they lost important time while trying to verify the authenticity of the document. Authorities have not publicly reported whether there is a criminal investigation against the person accused.

Who is the young woman detained in Dilley?

Gómez-Quiroz arrived in the United States with her partner after leaving Colombia. Her sister explained that both were fleeing violence perpetrated by guerrilla groups in their community. The couple intended to request asylum from U.S. authorities. Border Patrol detained Gómez-Quiroz in June, according to information presented by DHS.

The department indicated that the young woman was convicted of illegal entry on July 6. Currently, ICE maintains custody of her while deportation proceedings advance. The family also expressed concern about pain in her lower abdomen. DHS stated that there is an ongoing practice to provide medical attention from the moment of admission into ICE custody. However, family members maintain that the young woman is depressed and fears for her pregnancy.

What happens to pregnant women in detention?

The Dilley center houses more than 500 people, according to lawmakers cited by ABC News. Among them are at least 4 pregnant women. Gómez-Quiroz’s detention occurs as a federal judge ordered a review of the center’s conditions.

The order contemplates a special expert and an independent supervisor to evaluate length of stay. It also seeks to verify access to medical care and compliance with previous court agreements. ICE has guidelines on the treatment of pregnant people, postpartum individuals, or those in lactation period.

Detention can continue in exceptional circumstances, according to applicable rules. Therefore, pregnancy status does not always result in automatic release. The defense must present the medical and family situation to the corresponding authority.

How to identify a fake immigration bond?

A legitimate immigration bond must be verified directly with the immigration court or ICE. Families should not rely solely on letters, seals, logos, or printed signatures. Payment must be made through official channels and with verifiable receipts.

Additionally, the lawyer’s name must appear in the professional registry of the state where they practice. The family should also verify credentials and request written documentation of all agreements.