On December 10, 2025, in the United States, an immigration judge ruled on Monday, December 8, that 33-year-old Brazilian woman Bruna Ferreira was granted bail, but still might face deportation.
Her lawyer stated that the immigration judge ordered her release on a bail of $1,500.
A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said in an email that day, “She must comply with the mandatory requirements of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), reporting regularly to ensure she abides by the bail conditions.”
The spokesperson also mentioned, “DHS will continue its efforts to promptly repatriate all foreign nationals illegally staying in the United States.”
Earlier on November 26, a DHS spokesperson confirmed that Ferreira entered the U.S. on a tourist visa, which expired on June 6, 1999, subsequently overstayed illegally. She was arrested by ICE agents on November 12 in Revere, Massachusetts, and is currently detained at an ICE facility in Southern Louisiana, undergoing the deportation process.
The spokesperson stated that Ferreira had been arrested for “assault.” The spokesperson further noted, “According to President Trump and Secretary Noem’s policies, all individuals illegally staying in the U.S. will be repatriated.”
According to multiple media reports, Ferreira is the ex-wife of Michael Leavitt, the brother of White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. The two had a relationship and a son together, but have not been in contact for years. Their child is currently living with Michael in New Hampshire.
Ferreira was heading to New Hampshire to visit her 11-year-old son when she was arrested and during the arrest process, she mentioned her relative connection to the White House press secretary.
Karoline Leavitt herself declined to comment on the incident, while White House officials stated, “Karoline has no involvement in this matter.”
(This article referenced reports from the Associated Press)