A family member of Karoline Leavitt is now facing deportation to Brazil, potentially leaving her son behind, after being detained by ICE officials.
The White House press secretary, known for her contentious stance on immigration, now sees the impact of ICE raids she has supported during her tenure affecting her own family.
Bruna Ferreira, the mother of 11-year-old Michael Leavitt Jr., is currently in ICE custody and faces potential deportation to Brazil.
Ferreira was previously engaged to Karoline’s brother, Michael Leavitt, who resides in New Hampshire. They had co-parented their son before ending their relationship.
A source familiar with the situation provided insights to the Daily Beast regarding the relationship between Leavitt and Ferreira.
The source told the outlet: “This individual is the mother of Karoline’s nephew and they have not spoken in many years. The child has lived full-time in New Hampshire with his father since he was born. He has never resided with his mother.”
Michael, Karoline’s brother, stated: “The only concern has always been the safety, well-being, and privacy of my son.”
A spokesperson from the Department of Homeland Security also communicated with the outlet, labeling Ferreira as a ‘criminal illegal alien from Brazil.’ She is held at the South Louisiana ICE Processing Center, awaiting removal proceedings.
The spokesperson explained: “She has a previous arrest for battery. She entered the U.S. on a B2 tourist visa that required her to depart the U.S. by June 6, 1999.
“Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, all individuals unlawfully present in the United States are subject to deportation.”
In contrast, a GoFundMe page set up by Ferreira’s sister argues against the spokesperson’s claims.
The fundraiser also highlights the emotional toll the situation has taken on young Michael Jr.
The page states: “My sister, Bruna, was recently detained by immigration and is now fighting to stay in the country she has called home for nearly her entire life.
“Bruna was brought to the United States by our parents in December of 1998, when she was just a child, entering on a visa. Since then, she has done everything in her power to build a stable, honest life here.
“She has maintained her legal status through DACA, followed every requirement, and has always strived to do the right thing.”
The GoFundMe page concludes by requesting financial assistance to cover legal fees, hoping to provide Ferreira the best chance of remaining in the US.
The White House and the Department of Homeland Security have been contacted for comment on the situation.