Toddler Denied Medication After Hospitalization, Lawsuit Claims

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A lawsuit filed in Texas federal court alleges that an 18-month-old girl detained by U.S. immigration authorities was returned to custody and denied medication after being hospitalized with a life-threatening respiratory illness. The child, identified as 'Amalia,' was released from detention after her parents sued, but the lawsuit says hundreds of children and families detained at the Dilley, Texas facility lack proper medical care.

Why it matters

The case highlights ongoing concerns about the treatment of immigrant families and children in U.S. detention facilities, with allegations of inadequate medical care, nutrition, and living conditions. It comes amid a broader debate over immigration enforcement policies under the Trump administration.

The details

According to the lawsuit, Amalia was detained with her parents at the Dilley, Texas detention facility in December 2025. She was hospitalized from January 18-28 with COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus, viral bronchitis, and pneumonia, and placed on supplemental oxygen. However, upon her return to the detention center, Amalia was allegedly denied the nebulizer and respiratory medication she had been prescribed.

• Amalia and her parents were detained at the Dilley facility on December 11, 2025.
• Amalia was hospitalized from January 18 to January 28, 2026.
• Amalia was returned to the Dilley facility in the midst of a measles outbreak.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The lawsuit seeks the release of Amalia and her parents, as well as other children and families detained at the Dilley facility. A federal judge will likely need to rule on the case and determine whether the family should be released or deported.