Full Breakdown
9-Year-Old Deiver Henao Jimenez Released from ICE Detention
3/26/2026, 5:54:20 AM
Core Event: Release of Deiver Henao Jimenez
Deiver Henao Jimenez, a 9-year-old boy from Colombia, was released from the Dilley Immigration Processing Center in South Texas on humanitarian parole after pleading for his freedom during a video call with children's entertainer Rachel Accurso, known as Ms. Rachel. Deiver had been detained with his family since early March following a routine immigration check-in in New Mexico. His release comes just ahead of the New Mexico state spelling bee, where he had qualified by finishing third in a regional competition.
Background & Context: Conditions at Dilley Immigration Processing Center
The Dilley Immigration Processing Center has faced criticism from immigration advocates and lawyers regarding the treatment of children. Reports indicate that detainees, including children, have struggled with inadequate medical care, poor food quality, and a lack of educational resources. The facility operates under conditions that include constant lighting and guard presence, which some families have described as detrimental to the well-being of the children.
Advocacy and Public Response
Rachel Accurso has utilized her platform to advocate for the closure of the Dilley center, emphasizing the need for families to be returned to their communities. Following her video calls with detained children, including Deiver and another child named Gael, Accurso expressed her disbelief at the juxtaposition of children being held in detention while preparing for events like spelling bees. She stated, “We’re trying to get a child out of a jail to do a spelling bee. I just never thought those words would go together.”
Official Statements & Responses
Corey Sullivan Martin, the family's lawyer, highlighted the unnecessary nature of Deiver's detention, stating, “I don’t see how it was necessary at all to detain a child who was doing exactly what we want children to do.” The Department of Homeland Security did not provide immediate comments regarding the family's release or the conditions at the facility.
Criticism & Opposition
Accurso's advocacy has not been without controversy. Some far-right groups have criticized her efforts, alleging antisemitism in her broader humanitarian work. Despite this backlash, Accurso remains firm in her stance, asserting that her advocacy is inherently political, stating, “It’s political to believe that children are worthy of love and care, and that every child is equal.”
Verbatim Quotes
What's Next: Ongoing Advocacy
Following Deiver's release, Accurso continues to advocate for the closure of the Dilley Immigration Processing Center and for improved conditions for families in immigration detention. The case has drawn attention to the broader issues surrounding immigration policies and the treatment of asylum-seeking families in the United States.
