Arizona Detains 79-Year-Old Grandmother with Dementia

Advocates call for release of Julia Benitez, known as 'la abuela,' from immigration detention center

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Julia Benitez, a 79-year-old grandmother with dementia, has been detained by immigration authorities in Arizona, sparking outrage from advocates who argue she poses no threat and should be released to her family. Benitez, affectionately known as 'la abuela,' has lived in the U.S. for decades and has no criminal record, but was taken into custody during a routine check-in with immigration officials.

Why it matters

Benitez's case highlights concerns about the treatment of elderly and mentally ill immigrants in the U.S. detention system. Critics say detaining vulnerable individuals like Benitez, who pose no public safety risk, goes against humanitarian principles and wastes limited government resources that could be better utilized.

The details

Benitez, who has lived in the U.S. for over 30 years, was taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during a routine check-in appointment. Her family and advocates argue the detention of the 79-year-old grandmother with dementia is cruel and unnecessary, as she has no criminal record and is not a flight risk.

  • Benitez was detained by ICE on February 15, 2026 during a routine check-in appointment.

The players

Julia Benitez

A 79-year-old grandmother with dementia who has lived in the U.S. for over 30 years and has no criminal record.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal law enforcement agency that detained Benitez during a routine check-in appointment.

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What they’re saying

“Detaining a 79-year-old grandmother with dementia is a far cry from going after the 'worst of the worst.' This is cruel and unnecessary.”

— Immigrant rights advocate (Tulsa World)

What’s next

Benitez's family and advocates are calling for her immediate release from the Arizona detention center so she can receive proper care and be reunited with her loved ones.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for more humane and compassionate treatment of elderly and mentally ill immigrants in the U.S. detention system, who often pose no threat to public safety.