Family Focuses on Recovery After Immigration Ordeal
ORVAUX, France (AP) – The son of an 85-year-old French widow, who married an American military veteran only to face detention for a visa overstay, is calling for some time to recover following the ordeal.
Emphasis on Health and Well-Being
Upon her return to France last Friday, Hervé Gois expressed to the media that the family’s “absolute priority” is to ensure her well-being. He emphasized the need for his mother, Marie-Thérèse Ross, to rest and regain her health.
Relief at Family Reunification
“We are reunited with our mother today, and we are particularly relieved that she is back,” Gois stated during a news conference held in the western French city of Orvaux. He acknowledged the difficulties she faced during her time in detention, saying, “She necessarily went through difficult trials.”
Criticism of U.S. Immigration Practices
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrault confirmed Ross’s return to France after a distressing 16 days in U.S. immigration detention. While specific details were not disclosed, he criticized U.S. immigration enforcement methods, asserting that they “do not meet” French standards and are “unacceptable to us.”
Background of the Immigration Issues
Court records reveal that Ross entered the United States in June after marrying a retired U.S. soldier who had been stationed in France during the 1960s. Following her husband’s death in January, disputes concerning his inheritance arose. An Alabama judge indicated that her son-in-law, a U.S. federal employee, allegedly played a role in her immigration detention.
Detention Circumstances and Legal Proceedings
U.S. Department of Homeland Security officials confirmed that Ross was detained in Alabama on April 1 for overstaying her visa, which allowed a 90-day stay. She was subsequently held in a Louisiana detention center as French authorities voiced concerns over her welfare.
Focus on Safety and Family Support
Gois mentioned that Ross was in the process of applying for a green card at the time of her detention. At the news conference, he reiterated that the priority was her safety and comfort, surrounded by her family. “What’s important is that she is truly safe, has regained her comfort, and that she is with her children and grandchildren,” he asserted.
Community Concern for Ross’s Well-Being
Sébastien Arouet, the mayor of Orvaux, conveyed that he had spoken with Ross, reporting her relief and happiness to return home. He urged people to consider the psychological toll of her experience, stating, “We are not aware of the psychological violence. She needs to deal with all of this. And the most important thing is that she comes back with us.” It was noted that Ross was detained inappropriately dressed, without access to her cell phone, passport, or any identification.
