A 71-year-old U.S. citizen was detained for eight hours by federal agents while volunteering at a San Diego immigration court, raising concerns among immigrant rights groups.
Barbara Stone was handcuffed and held on Tuesday during her volunteer work, according to her family. Stone, who was observing court proceedings to support migrants, said she suffered a bruise and felt mentally and physically traumatized after the incident.
A video shared with NBC 7 shows a tense exchange, with an officer accusing Stone of pushing him. However, Stone’s husband, Gershon Shafir, described her as a gentle person who was only there to protect refugees.
“She is the last person who would hit or interfere with an agent,” Shafir said.
Stone’s volunteer work is protected under the First Amendment, says Ruth Mendez of Detention Resistance, an immigrant advocacy group. Mendez expressed concern that the detention will scare others away from volunteering in immigration courts.
“There is a real fear here,” Mendez said. “Volunteers know they might be at risk of detention themselves.”
ICE has not responded directly to requests for comment, instead referring inquiries to the Federal Protective Service, which has yet to reply.
Stone’s phone was reportedly confiscated during the detention, though no charges have been filed against her.
Despite the ordeal, Stone remains determined to continue her volunteer work. “I’m not afraid,” she said.
The incident highlights growing tensions at immigration courts, where volunteers attempt to help migrants navigating complex and often intimidating proceedings.
