The 5-Year-Old at the Center of ICE Detention Controversy

Liam Conejo Ramos, a 5-year-old Ecuadorian preschooler from the Minneapolis suburb of Columbia Heights, Minnesota, became a symbol of the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement policies in early 2026 after federal agents detained him and his father outside their home. The case sparked widespread outrage, viral photos, celebrity commentary and legal battles, thrusting the young boy into the national spotlight amid broader debates over family separations and asylum processes.

Here are 10 essential facts about Liam Conejo Ramos and the events that brought him to public attention.

1. Full Name and Background Liam Conejo Ramos (often referred to as Liam Ramos in media reports) is the son of Adrian Alexander Conejo Arias, an asylum seeker from Ecuador. The family entered the United States in 2024 and filed for asylum. Liam, who turned 5 shortly before the incident, attended preschool in Columbia Heights Public Schools. He is described by school officials and community members as a typical kindergartener who enjoys school and has a close bond with his father.
2. Date and Circumstances of Detention On Jan. 20, 2026, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents detained Liam and his father in their driveway as they returned home from preschool. Photos captured by witnesses showed Liam in a blue knit bunny hat with floppy ears, a plaid coat and a Spiderman backpack, staring blankly as agents escorted him to a black SUV. The arrest occurred amid Operation Metro Surge, a large-scale enforcement action in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul area targeting undocumented immigrants.
3. Detention Location and Duration Liam and his father were transported to the South Texas Family Residential Center in Dilley, Texas — a facility for families in immigration proceedings. They spent approximately 10-12 days in custody. Reports indicated Liam became ill during detention, missed school and expressed fear of guards, according to family statements and advocates.
4. Legal Intervention and Release A federal judge in Minnesota, Fred Biery, ordered their release on Jan. 31, 2026, citing humanitarian concerns and due process issues. The ruling quoted the Declaration of Independence and biblical references in condemning the child’s detention. Liam and Adrian returned to Minneapolis on Feb. 1, 2026, via commercial flight, greeted by supporters including Texas Rep. Joaquin Castro, who shared photos of their reunion.
5. Viral Photo and Public Reaction Images of Liam in his bunny hat being led away by masked agents went viral, drawing comparisons to past family separation controversies. Celebrities including Ms. Rachel (from children’s programming), Kamala Harris and others expressed outrage on social media, calling the detention “horrifying” and “unacceptable.” Supporters argued the family followed legal asylum processes upon entry.
6. Connection to Super Bowl Halftime Show Rumors During Bad Bunny’s Feb. 8, 2026, Super Bowl halftime performance, the artist handed a Grammy trophy to a young boy onstage as a symbolic gesture of inspiration. Social media rumors quickly claimed the child was Liam Ramos, linking the cultural moment to his story. Bad Bunny’s publicist, multiple outlets including NPR and People, and school officials confirmed the boy was an actor representing Puerto Rican youth, not Liam, who remained in Minnesota.
7. Ongoing Immigration Proceedings The family’s asylum case remains pending in immigration court. Despite release from detention, the Trump administration pursued expedited removal, with DHS and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem seeking fast-track deportation. A judge denied the expedited bid in early February 2026, allowing more time for hearings. The family continues fighting for legal status amid uncertainty.
8. Community and School Impact Columbia Heights Public Schools canceled classes one day due to a credible bomb threat linked to heightened attention on the case. Principal Jason Kuhlman described the environment as “like the wild west,” noting trauma for students and families. The district advocated for Liam, emphasizing his right to education and safety. Community leaders and elected officials rallied in support, highlighting broader effects on immigrant families.
9. Broader Political Context The incident occurred during intensified immigration enforcement under President Trump’s second term, including workplace raids and family detentions. Critics viewed Liam’s case as emblematic of using children as “bait” to apprehend parents. Supporters of the policy argued ICE had no choice given outstanding orders, though the family maintained they entered legally and pursued asylum properly.
10. Current Status and Future Outlook As of February 2026, Liam has returned to preschool and family life in Minnesota, though deportation proceedings loom. Advocates continue pressing for humanitarian parole or asylum approval. The case remains a flashpoint in national immigration debates, symbolizing tensions over child welfare, due process and enforcement priorities.

Liam Conejo Ramos’ story — from a routine school day to international headlines — underscores the human impact of policy decisions. While his detention lasted only weeks, the emotional and legal aftermath continues to unfold for this young boy and his family.