ICE Deports Woman Who Tried to Transfer Newborn to Pay Smugglers

What Happened in St. Louis

Maria Lidia Valle-Hernandez, a 28-year-old woman from Mexico, was removed (deported) from the United States on May 11, 2026, after an immigration court issued a removal order against her. ICE — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement — carried out the deportation following her arrest by Chesterfield, Missouri police on April 22 for fourth-degree domestic assault. The next day, ICE placed an immigration detainer on her, meaning they asked local authorities to hold her so ICE could take custody.

Investigators say Valle-Hernandez registered under a false name at St. Joseph's Hospital in Lake Saint Louis before giving birth in January 2024. After leaving the hospital, she gave her hospital identification wristband to another woman — also undocumented — so that woman could falsely claim to be the baby's mother. Authorities say Valle-Hernandez later admitted she did this because of a debt to smugglers. She hoped that by bringing her other child from Mexico to the US, she could resolve that debt. The scheme was reported to the Lake Saint Louis Police Department by a concerned person, which led to a joint investigation by local police, the Missouri Children's Division, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Investigators confirmed Valle-Hernandez's identity through fingerprint records after she repeatedly denied her role. The newborn was placed in protective custody by the Missouri Children's Division.

U.S. Border Patrol had caught Valle-Hernandez crossing the border illegally near Santa Teresa, New Mexico, five times in August 2022 — including twice in one day. She was returned to Mexico each time. Her case shows how prior illegal entries and a criminal arrest can quickly lead to removal proceedings (the official legal process to deport someone) and a final deportation order.

Why This Case Matters for Immigrants

This case is a reminder that an arrest — even before a conviction — can trigger an ICE detainer and start removal proceedings. Once ICE takes someone into custody, the clock moves fast. You have 30 days to appeal a removal order to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA), the federal body that reviews immigration court decisions. Missing that deadline can make deportation almost impossible to stop. If you or someone you know is in removal proceedings, acting quickly is critical.

What to Do

• If ICE arrests you or a family member: You have the right to remain silent and the right to speak with an immigration lawyer. Do not sign any documents before speaking with an attorney.
• If you receive a removal order: You have 30 days to file an appeal with the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). Do not wait — lawyers recommend contacting an immigration attorney the same day you receive the order.
• If you cannot afford a lawyer: Contact a nonprofit immigration legal aid organization in your area. Many offer free or low-cost help for people in removal proceedings.
• If a family member is detained: Ask for their immigration court hearing date and location immediately. Missing a hearing almost always results in a removal order issued in your absence.