A New Zealand woman and her six-year-old son, detained for over three weeks at a U.S. immigration center after crossing from Canada, have finally been released.
Sarah Shaw, 33, and her young son were held when they tried to re-enter the U.S. on July 24 after dropping off her two older children at Vancouver Airport for a trip to New Zealand. Her friend Victoria Besançon confirmed on Saturday that they were now safely home but needed time to recover before speaking publicly.
Shaw, who has lived in Washington state for three years, was detained without clear explanation. Her father, Rod Price, recalled receiving a frantic call from her, saying, “They’re locking me up for the night” before her phone was taken.
Besançon, who helped fund Shaw’s legal battle, described the ordeal as “terrifying” and “barbaric.” Shaw initially feared she was being kidnapped—officials placed her and her son in an unmarked van without explanation. They were then taken to the Dilley detention center in Texas, far from their home.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) stated that the facility is designed for families, ensuring safety and medical care. However, Besançon said Shaw and her son were isolated—locked in their room overnight, forced to wear provided clothing, and surrounded by non-English speakers.
Shaw holds a “combo card” visa, combining work authorization and a pending domestic violence survivor visa (I-360). She mistakenly believed her renewal was fully approved, only realizing at the border that half her status was still pending.
Her case reflects a broader trend of foreigners—including British, German, Canadian, and Australian nationals—being detained despite valid visas. Shaw’s union, the Washington Federation of State Employees, demanded her release, with president Mike Yestramski warning of lasting trauma for her and her son.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) defended the detention, stating that those with expired parole status are stopped under U.S. law, with minors kept with families or placed with guardians.
For now, Shaw and her son are free, but the emotional toll remains.
FAQS
### **FAQs About New Zealand Woman and Her Six-Year-Old Son Freed After US Detention**
#### **Basic Questions**
**1. Who is the New Zealand woman detained in the US?**
She is a New Zealand citizen who was detained in the United States, along with her six-year-old son, for reasons initially unclear.
**2. Why were they detained?**
Reports suggest they were held due to an immigration or visa-related issue, though exact details haven’t been fully disclosed.
**3. How long were they detained?**
The duration of their detention hasn’t been confirmed, but they were released after intervention from New Zealand officials.
**4. Where were they detained?**
The exact location hasn’t been specified, but it was somewhere in the United States.
**5. Is the child okay after being detained?**
Authorities have confirmed the boy is safe, but no further details about his condition have been shared publicly.
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#### **Intermediate Questions**
**6. What was New Zealand’s government’s role in their release?**
New Zealand officials worked with US authorities to secure their release, likely through diplomatic channels.
**7. Were they detained by immigration or another agency?**
It’s unclear—reports suggest it may have been Customs and Border Protection or another agency handling entry issues.
**8. Did they overstay a visa or violate entry rules?**
No official reason has been confirmed, but visa complications are a likely cause.
**9. Has this happened to other New Zealanders in the US?**
Occasionally, travelers face entry issues, but high-profile detentions like this are rare.
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#### **Advanced Questions**
**10. What legal steps can travelers take if detained in the US?**
They can request consular assistance from their home country and seek legal counsel.
**11. Could this affect US-New Zealand relations?**
Unlikely, as both countries have strong ties, but it may prompt discussions on traveler rights.
**12. Are there travel warnings for New Zealanders visiting the US?**
No current warnings, but travelers should ensure proper visas and documentation.
**13. How can parents prevent issues when traveling with children internationally?**
Always carry:
– Valid passports & visas
– Consent letters (
