Sheriff Sues Woman Over Alleged ICE Detention 'Hoax'

Authorities say woman's claims of being held by immigration agents were fabricated, contradicted by evidence

Apr. 16, 2026 at 3:33am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered car sensor lens reflecting a faint red light, conceptually illustrating the alleged vandalism of self-driving vehicles.A recent wave of targeted vandalism against autonomous vehicles exposes tensions over emerging transportation technology.Rosemont Today

A Wisconsin sheriff has filed a federal lawsuit against a woman who he says fabricated a story about being detained by immigration authorities for 40 hours. Investigators say hotel records, surveillance footage, and text messages show the woman was never in custody and instead spent the time at a hotel, contradicting her claims.

Why it matters

The case has drawn comparisons to the Jussie Smollett hoax, highlighting the potential consequences of making false claims that can damage reputations, misdirect law enforcement resources, and erode public trust. Authorities warn that such hoaxes can have serious repercussions.

The details

Dodge County Sheriff Dale Schmidt announced the lawsuit after a weekslong investigation into claims by Sundas 'Sunny' Naqvi, a U.S. citizen from Illinois, that she was detained by federal immigration authorities at O'Hare Airport and held in Illinois and Wisconsin. However, records show Naqvi entered secondary inspection at O'Hare, was released an hour later, and then checked into an Illinois hotel, where she remained during the alleged detention period. Surveillance footage, license plate data, and witness statements also contradict her claims of being transported to Wisconsin in law enforcement custody.

  • On March 5, Naqvi entered secondary inspection at O'Hare Airport around 10:46 a.m. and was released around 11:42 a.m.
  • Just over an hour later, at 1:17 p.m., Naqvi checked into a Hampton Inn & Suites in Rosemont, Illinois.
  • On March 7, surveillance video shows Naqvi at a gas station in Slinger, Wisconsin around 5:46 a.m., contradicting claims she had just been released from the Dodge County Jail.

The players

Dale Schmidt

The Dodge County Sheriff who announced the federal lawsuit against Sundas 'Sunny' Naqvi over her fabricated claims.

Sundas 'Sunny' Naqvi

A U.S. citizen from Skokie, Illinois who allegedly fabricated a story about being detained by immigration authorities for 40 hours.

Kevin Morrison

A Cook County Commissioner who publicly amplified Naqvi's claims and accused the sheriff's office of a 'cover-up'.

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What they’re saying

“There is no video, documentation or witness testimony placing Ms. Naqvi in any Dodge County facility.”

— Dale Schmidt, Dodge County Sheriff

“These allegations are serious, but they are not supported by evidence. We have reviewed the records, we have established the timeline and the facts are clear — this did not happen.”

— Dale Schmidt, Dodge County Sheriff

“Dodge County is not the place you want to make up a hoax about.”

— Dale Schmidt, Dodge County Sheriff

What’s next

Authorities say the findings have been shared with federal and state partners, including the FBI and Illinois State Police, for further review, and the investigation remains active.

The takeaway

This case highlights the serious consequences that can result from fabricated claims, including damaging reputations, misdirecting law enforcement resources, and eroding public trust. Authorities warn that such hoaxes can have far-reaching impacts and will be aggressively investigated.