Dilley, Texas, February 1, 2026
Adrian and his 5-year-old son Liam were detained in Minnesota for overstaying their immigration parole. Following criticism from a judge regarding government deportation quotas, they are set to be released from the Dilley facility in Texas. Concerns have been raised about the facility’s conditions and the treatment of families, drawing political attention from local representatives.
San Antonio, Texas
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Detention Date | January 20, 2026 |
| Location of Detention | Columbia Heights, Minnesota |
| Transfer to Facility | Dilley Immigration Processing Center, Texas |
| Judge’s Ruling Date | January 31, 2026 |
| Release Deadline | February 3, 2026 |
| Allegations | Use of child as “bait” to apprehend mother |
| Political Response | Visit by Representatives Joaquin Castro and Jasmine Crockett |
U.S. District Judge Fred Biery has mandated the release of Adrian Alexander Conejo Arias and his 5-year-old son, Liam Conejo Ramos, from the Dilley Immigration Processing Center in Texas. The release must occur by Tuesday, February 3, 2026, while their immigration case proceeds through the court system.
Adrian and Liam were detained on January 20, 2026, in Columbia Heights, Minnesota, after federal officials stated they had overstayed their immigration parole. The family entered the U.S. from Ecuador in December 2024 and has an active asylum claim. They were subsequently transferred to the Dilley facility in Texas as they awaited proceedings regarding their case.
Judge Biery criticized the government’s pursuit of daily deportation quotas, suggesting this practice emerges from an ill-conceived and poorly executed governmental strategy that, unfortunately, results in the trauma of children. In his ruling, the judge invoked the Declaration of Independence to underscore some historical parallels with contemporary governmental practices.
Concerns have been raised about the conditions within the Dilley facility, with reports indicating instances of illnesses and malnutrition among detained children. Further allegations have surfaced claiming that ICE agents utilized Liam as “bait” to apprehend his mother. The Department of Homeland Security has denied these allegations, asserting that Adrian abandoned the child in a running vehicle when he fled.
The political landscape surrounding this case has become increasingly charged. Representatives Joaquin Castro and Jasmine Crockett, both from the Democratic Party, have taken action by visiting the Dilley center to meet Adrian and Liam. During their visit, they expressed grave concerns regarding the treatment of families in detention and advocated for the release of Adrian and Liam. This incident has intensified the ongoing discourse around immigration enforcement practices and the treatment of children in such environments.
As this case unfolds, it shines a light on broader immigration policies and the need for ongoing community discussions about the balance between law enforcement and the humane treatment of immigrants, particularly families with young children. The resilience and determination of small business owners and community leaders in Dallas and across Texas remain vital as we navigate complex societal issues in pursuit of entrepreneurial innovation and economic growth.
Support for local businesses and engagement in community discussions can pave the way for a more robust, collaborative approach to economic development and cultural inclusion.
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
