A case involving Chantal Alejandra Morales Rojas has attracted national interest, as she disputes ICE’s decision to attach an ankle monitor following her release on bond. The 27-year-old Ecuadorian citizen recently filed an amended petition for a writ of habeas corpus in a U.S. District Court in Colorado, questioning the imposed monitoring and supervision after an immigration judge’s decision.
The controversy began on July 20 when Morales Rojas was detained by ICE at Denver International Airport while boarding a flight to Oakland. This incident gained attention amidst a broader effort by the Trump administration to target suspected visa overstayers, as reported by The New York Times.
Morales Rojas arrived in the U.S. in early 2023 on a J-1 exchange visitor visa to work as an au pair, maintaining compliance with immigration laws, according to court records. The filing states that on July 16, she flew to Denver to provide childcare services for a former employer. Four days later, ICE issued a Form I-200 warrant for her arrest as she prepared to board a return flight. She faced removal charges under the Immigration and Nationality Act for allegedly overstaying her visa, a claim she disputes due to her J-1 status not having a fixed expiration date.
An immigration judge allowed her release on bond on July 28, without imposing additional conditions. Yet, Morales Rojas claims ICE attached an ankle monitor and enrolled her in the Intensive Supervision Appearance Program (ISAP), contesting these actions as ‘constructive custody’ and a breach of her liberty.
Her legal team argues these requirements infringe on her due process rights, as the bond order excluded such conditions. The court is yet to decide on the validity of her claims, though a U.S. Magistrate has requested a response from federal officials.
ICE spokespersons previously stated that Rojas overstayed her authorized stay following her entry on October 20, 2024, with a visa valid until January 4, 2025. Newsweek has reached out to both Rojas’ attorneys and the Department of Homeland Security for further comments.
Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte Faces Arrest Over Threats 
Key Updates on 2026 Election Developments 
Trump Administration Shifts Education Policy, Targets Race-Based Programs 
Toddler Falls from Jersey Shore Boardwalk Ride, Prompts Safety Investigation 
New York Mayor Mamdani’s First 9/11 Memorial Service as a Day of Remembrance 
U.S. Military Reveals Drone Takedowns at Southern Border