Green Card Holder Released From ICE Custody Seeks Therapy After Traumatic Experience

Charity Grace Mukamuri, a 43-year-old green card holder, has sought therapy after being released from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody. She says the detention experience left her traumatized and struggling to rebuild her life. Mukamuri was released on June 3 after a period of detention at Camp East Montana facility in El Paso, Texas.

Mukamuri, whose situation was part of a Newsweek investigation, described her stay from late 2025 to mid-2026 as a time of deteriorating conditions in the facility. She also claimed she faced retaliation for sharing information externally.

“I feel relieved that my process is complete, but I’m struggling to cope,” Mukamuri stated. “I’m glad to be with my family, yet I can’t stop thinking about friends who remain detained.”

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) did not respond to follow-up questions about allegations previously made against Mukamuri, accusing her of acts of cruelty toward children. Her family asserts she has no criminal record and holds a valid green card.

A DHS spokesperson mentioned that under the administration of President Trump and Secretary Noem, those who break laws will face consequences. This includes acts of cruelty towards children, which are not tolerated.

Mukamuri’s release was due to a court order by Immigration Judge Stephen Ruhle, who found her removable but granted her cancellation of removal application. This legal decision allowed her to stay in the U.S. The order was based on the judge’s oral ruling, with both parties waiving a written decision.

Following her release, Mukamuri described mixed emotions. “I was happy to be out but overwhelmed with what’s next,” she added. After reuniting with her family, she expressed the need for therapy to cope with her detention experience.

Before detention, Mukamuri was pulled over in Oklahoma and subsequently taken into federal custody. She experienced multiple transfers, from Tulsa County Jail to the Blue Bonnet and Prairieland facilities, and then to Camp East Montana for several months. She concluded her detention experience at the El Paso Processing Center before being released in early June.

Mukamuri reported facing challenges in her case and restricted access to her attorney. It took over two months for her to speak with legal counsel effectively. She also pointed out the facility’s poor conditions, including inadequate food quality and medical care. Alleged retaliation occurred after detainees shared experiences with Newsweek.

After this information surfaced publicly, Mukamuri reported increased targeting by facility staff. Alleged accusations claimed her involvement with external figures, including a congressional staffer. She denied these accusations and labeled them as attempts to discredit her.

She recounted personal belongings being searched and damaged as part of the harassment. Conditions reportedly worsened post-publication as staff attempted to deter detainee communication.

Despite her release, Mukamuri remains focused on processing her experience. She advocates for other detainees, expressing concern for their living conditions. Mukamuri believes sharing detainees’ experiences is vital for public awareness.