An 86-year-old French woman who moved to the US last year after rekindling a 1960s romance is being detained at an immigration enforcement centre in Louisiana, raising concerns about her health and immigration status. Marie-Thérèse, originally from Nantes, was arrested in Anniston, Alabama. Her son described how she was treated during her detention, stating, They handcuffed her hands and feet like she was a dangerous criminal. According to the US Department of Homeland Security, she entered the country in June 2025 but overstayed her 90-day visa. However, her son claims she was awaiting a green card when she was taken into custody.

Marie-Thérèse had moved to the US to be with Billy, her long-lost love whom she had met when he was stationed in France during the 1960s. After years apart and both being widowed, they reconnected in 2010 and eventually married last year, as Marie-Thérèse relocated to Alabama. Tragically, just months after her marriage, Billy passed away, leaving her without clear immigration status. Following his death, disputes with his family regarding inheritance further complicated her situation, leading to her arrest by ICE before a scheduled hearing with her lawyer.

Amidst ongoing challenges, the French foreign ministry is involved in her case, and her son is determined to secure her release from detention, citing the urgent need for medical care due to her health issues. He described the ordeal as feeling like a bad American movie, expressing disbelief at the situation.