Advocating for a Mother Detained by ICE at Salt Lake City Airport

November 4, 2025

Salt Lake City, utah – A family is in distress after Marta Brizeyda Renderos Leiva, a 39-year-old mother of four American children, was unexpectedly detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents last Wednesday, October 29th, at the Salt Lake City International Airport. The arrest has raised questions about the agency’s procedures and the potential for errors in deportation proceedings.

Viral Video Captures the Arrest

The incident rapidly gained attention after a bystander began recording as Ms. Renderos Leiva protested her detention. the video, which quickly spread online, shows her pleading with agents, asserting she had legal authorization to remain in the United States. She was preparing to board a domestic flight and had already checked her luggage when the agents approached her.

Work Permit and Asylum Claim

According to her sister, Abigail Renderos, Marta possesses a valid work permit, renewed by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in 2024, and set to expire in 2029. Ms. renderos indicated that her sister has consistently maintained the same address since initially applying for asylum in 2019.

ICE Cites Prior Deportation Order

ICE officials released a statement explaining that the detention stemmed from a deportation order issued in 2020. The agency claims this order was a result of Ms. Renderos Leiva’s failure to appear at a prior immigration court hearing. Though, the family vehemently denies receiving any notification regarding the hearing or the subsequent deportation order.

Family’s Plea and Legal Support

The family is now desperately seeking legal assistance to challenge the deportation order and allow Ms. Renderos Leiva to continue pursuing her asylum claim. She fears returning to El Salvador, citing safety concerns. A fundraising campaign has been initiated to cover mounting attorney fees and provide support for her four minor children.

Salt Lake City Mayor expresses Concern

The Mayor of Salt Lake City has reportedly expressed concern over the arrest, noting the lack of clarity surrounding the reasons for Ms. Renderos Leiva’s detention. Witnesses say the ICE agents were dressed in plain clothes and refused to identify themselves when questioned about the arrest.

The situation Today

Ms. Renderos Leiva remains in a detention center within Salt Lake County, leaving her family in a state of uncertainty and anguish. Her children are reportedly devastated, repeatedly asking when their mother will return home.

Key Detail	Information
Name	Marta Brizeyda Renderos Leiva
Age	39
Citizenship Status	Asylum Seeker with valid work permit
Date of Arrest	October 29, 2025
Location of Arrest	Salt Lake City International Airport, Utah

Did You Know? According to data from Syracuse University’s Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse (TRAC), ICE arrests have fluctuated considerably in recent years, impacted by changes in policy and enforcement priorities.

Pro Tip: If you or someone you know is facing immigration issues, it’s crucial to seek legal counsel from a qualified immigration attorney.The Department of Justice offers resources for finding pro bono legal assistance.

Understanding ICE Detention and Deportation

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is the federal agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws within the United States. Their duties include identifying, arresting, and detaining individuals who are in violation of immigration laws, as well as deporting those who have been issued final orders of removal. The process can be complex and frequently enough involves navigating administrative and judicial procedures.

A deportation order is a legal directive issued by an immigration judge or the Department of Homeland Security that requires an individual to leave the United States.These orders can be issued for various reasons, including overstaying a visa, unlawful entry, or committing certain criminal offenses. Individuals subject to deportation orders may have avenues for appeal or relief,but these options are often time-sensitive and require legal expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions about ICE Detention

• What is ICE’s role in immigration enforcement? ICE enforces immigration laws and carries out deportations.
• What is a deportation order? A deportation order is a legal directive to leave the united States.
• Can a deportation order be challenged? Yes, individuals may have grounds to appeal or seek relief from a deportation order.
• what happens if someone is detained by ICE? Detained individuals are held in immigration detention centers while their case is processed.
• What rights do individuals have during an ICE detention? Detained individuals have certain legal rights, including the right to counsel and due process.
• How can someone find legal help with an immigration case? Resources are available through the Department of Justice and various non-profit organizations.

What are your thoughts on this situation? Do you believe the ICE acted appropriately? Share your opinions in the comments below.

What legal rights does a mother have when detained by ICE at a port of entry like Salt Lake City Airport?

Understanding ICE Detention & Your Rights

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention is a frightening experience, especially when it impacts a mother. If a mother has been detained by ICE at Salt Lake City Airport, or any other port of entry, knowing your rights and how to advocate for her is crucial. This guide provides actionable steps and resources for navigating this complex situation. Key terms to understand include immigration detention, deportation defense, and asylum claims.

Immediate Steps When a Mother is Detained

The first hours are critical. Here’s what to do immediately:

* Remain Calm: While incredibly difficult, staying calm will help you gather data and make rational decisions.

* Document Everything: Record the date, time, location of the detention, the names and badge numbers of any ICE officers involved, and any statements made. This documentation is vital for legal proceedings.

* Do Not Answer Questions Without an Attorney: Advise the detained mother to politely but firmly decline to answer any questions from ICE officials without legal portrayal.This protects her rights.

* Contact an Immigration Attorney: This is the most important step. An experienced immigration lawyer specializing in deportation defense can assess the situation, explain legal options, and begin building a case. Search for “Salt Lake City immigration attorney” or utilize resources listed later in this article.

* Notify Family & Support Network: Inform close family members and friends who can provide emotional and practical support.

Legal Options & Advocacy Strategies

Several legal avenues might potentially be available depending on the mother’s immigration status and circumstances.

* Bond Hearings: If eligible, a bond hearing can be requested to secure the mother’s release from detention while her case is pending. The attorney will present arguments for release, considering factors like community ties, flight risk, and criminal history (if any).

* Habeas Corpus Petition: This legal action challenges the legality of the detention itself, arguing that it violates constitutional rights.

* Asylum Claims: If the mother fears persecution in her home country, an asylum claim can be filed. This requires demonstrating a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.

* Cancellation of Removal: For long-term residents with strong ties to the U.S., cancellation of removal may be an option.

* Withholding of Removal: Similar to asylum,but with a lower burden of proof,withholding of removal protects individuals from being returned to a country where they face persecution.

Building a Strong Case: Gathering Evidence

A triumphant defense requires compelling evidence.Focus on collecting:

* proof of U.S. Ties: Documents demonstrating community involvement, employment history, school records for children, property ownership, and family relationships.

* Country Conditions Evidence: Information about the political and social climate in the mother’s home country, particularly if an asylum claim is being pursued. this can include reports from human rights organizations, news articles, and expert testimony.

* Affidavits: Statements from family members, friends, employers, and community members attesting to the mother’s character and contributions.

* Medical Records: If the mother or her children have medical conditions that would be exacerbated by deportation, obtain relevant medical documentation.

Resources for Support & Legal Assistance

Navigating ICE detention can be overwhelming. Utilize these resources:

* American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA): https://www.aila.org/ – Provides a directory of qualified immigration attorneys.

* Utah immigrant Connection: https://utahimmigrant.org/ – Offers legal referrals and community support in Utah.

* RAICES (Refugee and immigrant Centre for Education and Legal Services): https://www.raices.org/ – Provides legal services and advocacy for immigrants.

* Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC): https://www.ilrc.org/ – Offers training and resources for immigration attorneys and advocates.

* salt Lake County Legal Defender Association: May offer assistance or referrals in certain cases.

* Local Community Organizations: