MTG: ICE Detainee Would Be 'Thriving In Mexico'

By: Ark-La-Tex Staff Writer

In May 2025, 19-year-old college student Ximena Arias-Cristobal was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following a traffic stop in Dalton, Georgia. Local police later acknowledged that the stop was a case of mistaken identity and dropped the charges. However, during the incident, authorities discovered that Arias-Cristobal was residing in the U.S. without legal authorization, leading to her detention by ICE.

Arias-Cristobal, who was brought to the United States from Mexico at the age of four, does not qualify for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program due to her arrival date. Despite the dismissal of the traffic charges, she remained in ICE custody pending deportation proceedings.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, whose district includes Dalton, commented on the situation, emphasizing the importance of upholding immigration laws. She stated that while the traffic charges were dropped, Arias-Cristobal was driving without a license and lacks legal status in the U.S. Greene also noted that many U.S. citizens live legally in Mexico and suggested that Arias-Cristobal could similarly thrive there.

The incident prompted protests outside Rep. Greene's office, with community members advocating for Arias-Cristobal's release and highlighting her longstanding ties to the area. Her family and supporters argue that she poses no threat and should be allowed to remain in the country she considers home.

As of the latest reports, Arias-Cristobal was granted a $1,500 bond and released from ICE custody. However, deportation proceedings are ongoing, and her long-term status in the U.S. remains uncertain.