Rep. Crockett Describes 'Lethargic' 5-Year-Old in ICE Custody

Lawmaker says conditions at detention center are 'worse' than state and federal prisons

Jan. 29, 2026 at 12:55am

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Rep. Jasmine Crockett visited the South Texas Family Residential Center and described the conditions as 'worse' than what she has seen in state and federal prisons. Crockett said the 5-year-old boy, Liam Conejo Ramos, and his father did not look well, with the boy appearing 'lethargic'.

Why it matters

The treatment of migrant children in ICE custody has been a major point of controversy, with concerns raised about substandard conditions and the psychological impact on young detainees. Crockett's firsthand account adds to these concerns and puts a spotlight on the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement policies.

The details

During her visit, Rep. Crockett said the 5-year-old boy and his father appeared to be in poor health, with the child looking 'lethargic'. Crockett described the overall conditions at the detention center as 'worse' than what she has seen in state and federal prisons, raising alarm about the treatment of migrant families in ICE custody.

  • Rep. Crockett visited the South Texas Family Residential Center on January 28, 2026.

The players

Rep. Jasmine Crockett

A U.S. Representative who visited the South Texas Family Residential Center and described the conditions as 'worse' than state and federal prisons.

Liam Conejo Ramos

A 5-year-old boy detained at the South Texas Family Residential Center, whom Rep. Crockett described as appearing 'lethargic'.

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What they’re saying

“He was so lethargic. It was just really sad and concerning to see the conditions that these individuals are being held in.”

— Rep. Jasmine Crockett

The takeaway

Rep. Crockett's firsthand account raises serious questions about the treatment of migrant children in ICE custody, adding to ongoing concerns about the conditions and impact on young detainees.