Detention of Green Card Holder Sparks Legal Battle

Background on Beata Siemionkowicz’s Case

Beata Siemionkowicz, a Polish-born green card holder, has lived in the United States for decades. Despite her legal residency since 2003, she faces detention by ICE in Kentucky due to past shoplifting convictions and accusations of document forgery for immigration benefits. A DHS spokesperson shared these details with Newsweek.

Siemionkowicz, arrested in Illinois, spent the last year at Campbell County Detention Center, facing charges related to moral turpitude. Such charges can lead to deportation or other immigration penalties under U.S. law.

DHS’s Stand and Legal Efforts

“Possessing a green card is a privilege, not a right,” stated the DHS.

The DHS maintains the authority to revoke green cards if laws are broken. Siemionkowicz and her family acknowledge past theft charges, which amount to less than $150, according to her daughters.

An immigration judge issued an order of removal for Siemionkowicz on December 9, 2025. Her family filed an appeal and sought Senator Dick Durbin’s help.

Detention Conditions and Advocacy

Donna Hughes-Brown, who shared detention with Siemionkowicz, described poor conditions at the facility. Issues included unsanitary bathrooms, limited access to hygiene products, and black mold. Hughes-Brown, an Irish national, experienced detention due to misdemeanors.

Her family and supporters use social media to raise awareness. Her daughters started an Instagram page “Bring Beata Home” to highlight their mother’s situation.

Green Card Holders Facing Detention

The Trump administration emphasizes immigration enforcement, targeting those with criminal histories or violations. Despite legal residency, individuals like Siemionkowicz and others face detention and potential deportation. The administration has deported over 590,600 people since January 2025.

Advocacy efforts continue, highlighting alleged flaws in the deportation process. Families, legal experts, and advocacy groups push for transparency and fairness in dealing with cases like Siemionkowicz’s.