Connecticut AG Seeks to Separate Undocumented Mother from Child

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A 20-year-old undocumented mother from Ecuador has traveled over 4,500 miles to the U.S. border to regain custody of her 5-year-old son, who was placed in foster care in Connecticut 16 months ago following a domestic violence call. Despite the mother meeting all requirements set by the state, the Connecticut Attorney General's office, led by William Tong, is seeking to terminate her parental rights and place the child with an American family.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complex intersection of immigration, family law, and the power of the state, raising questions about whether the Connecticut AG's office is applying a different standard to an undocumented immigrant mother than it would to a U.S. citizen. Critics argue Tong's approach is reminiscent of past policies that separated Native American children from their families.

The details

The mother, who has never been charged with a crime or accused of abuse, traveled to the U.S. border in 2024 and was allowed entry through the CBP One mobile app. She has since taken two jobs, attended classes, and met all requirements set by the state, but the Department of Children and Families has made few efforts to reunite the family. The AG's office is now seeking to terminate her parental rights, arguing her 16-month absence amounts to 'neglect'.

• The mother's son was taken from his grandmother's home in Meriden and placed in foster care in November 2024.
• The mother traveled over 4,500 miles to the U.S. border in November 2024 to regain custody of her son.

What they’re saying

What’s next

A judge will decide whether to terminate the mother's parental rights and place her son with an American family.