Congressman Calls for Release of Sick Toddler Held by ICE

Joaquin Castro demands action over reports of inadequate care at Dilley detention facility

Mar. 31, 2026 at 1:10am

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A close-up painting of a small, worn stuffed animal sitting alone on a wooden bench in a dimly lit, sparsely furnished room, with warm sunlight streaming in through a window and casting deep shadows across the scene.A child's toy left behind in a government detention facility raises questions about the treatment of young detainees.Dilley Today

Congressman Joaquin Castro is calling for the immediate release of a 2-year-old boy named Kaleth and his mother from the much-criticized Dilley immigration detention facility in Texas. Castro says the toddler is sick and not receiving adequate medical care, with staff dismissing the mother's pleas for help as merely "mental" issues.

Why it matters

The Dilley detention center has faced longstanding criticism over its treatment of detainees, especially vulnerable populations like young children. This case highlights ongoing concerns about the conditions and medical care provided at these facilities, which have been the subject of lawsuits and investigations.

The details

According to Castro, when Kaleth's mother asked staff at the Dilley facility for help with her son's illness, they dismissed her concerns as merely "mental" problems. The congressman is now demanding the immediate release of Kaleth and his mother, citing the boy's deteriorating health and the facility's failure to provide proper medical care.

  • Kaleth and his mother have been detained at the Dilley facility in Texas.

The players

Congressman Joaquin Castro

A U.S. Representative from Texas who is calling for the release of the 2-year-old boy and his mother from the Dilley immigration detention facility.

Kaleth

A 2-year-old boy being held with his mother at the Dilley detention facility, who is reportedly sick and not receiving adequate medical care.

Dilley Detention Facility

An immigration detention center in Dilley, Texas that has faced longstanding criticism over its treatment of detainees, especially vulnerable populations like young children.

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What they’re saying

“When his mother asked for help, the staff said it was all 'mental'.”

— Congressman Joaquin Castro

What’s next

Congressman Castro is calling for the immediate release of Kaleth and his mother from the Dilley detention facility.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing concerns about the conditions and medical care provided at immigration detention facilities, especially for vulnerable populations like young children. It underscores the need for greater oversight and accountability to ensure detainees receive proper treatment.