Jasmine Mooney’s Shocking ICE Detention: What You Need to Know

In a startling turn of events, Jasmine Mooney, a 35-year-old Canadian entrepreneur and actress renowned for her role in the iconic film American Pie, has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Mooney was attempting to enter the United States from Mexico to apply for a work visa when she was apprehended at the San Ysidro border crossing, one of the busiest in the world. Her detention has raised serious concerns about the treatment of foreign nationals at U.S. borders, particularly Canadians seeking entry.

Mooney’s ordeal began on March 3, 2025, when she was held due to an incomplete work visa application. Reports indicate that she has been used as an “example” in the context of heightened immigration enforcement. Her previous TN visa, which allowed her to work in the U.S., had been revoked without a clear explanation, further complicating her situation. Since her detention, her family has been vocal about her treatment, describing it as “inhumane” and pleading for her release.

During her time in custody, Mooney has described being “wrapped in chains” and held in overcrowded conditions at the San Luis Regional Detention Center in Arizona. This privately operated facility has come under scrutiny for its lack of natural light, inadequate food, and minimal access to basic necessities. Mooney is currently being held alongside nearly 30 other women, all facing similar challenges. Her associate, BJ McCaslin, has been in contact with her through a messaging app for detainees, expressing deep concern for her well-being.

The emotional toll on Mooney’s family has been significant. Her mother has been actively seeking help and raising awareness about her daughter’s situation, calling it distressing and urging for her immediate release. “It’s heartbreaking to see my daughter in such a situation,” she stated in a recent interview. “We just want her home.” The family’s efforts to secure her release have garnered attention, highlighting the broader implications of immigration policies and the treatment of individuals crossing the U.S. border.

This incident has sparked discussions about the current immigration landscape in the U.S., particularly regarding the treatment of Canadians traveling to the country. The increased detentions of non-U.S. citizens under stricter immigration policies, which were implemented during the Trump administration, have raised alarms about the safety and rights of foreign nationals. Mooney’s case is emblematic of these concerns, prompting questions about the motivations behind such stringent enforcement measures.

Global Affairs Canada has stated that they are in contact with local authorities to provide consular assistance to Mooney. However, they have clarified that they cannot intervene in the entry requirements of another country. As the situation unfolds, Mooney is expected to be released soon, but the experience has already highlighted significant issues regarding the treatment of Canadians at the U.S. border.

Mooney, who has a background in the health food industry, was in the U.S. to attend a health product expo in Anaheim, California, when her plans were abruptly derailed. The increased scrutiny of her visa application has raised questions about the overall safety of Canadians traveling to the U.S. and the challenges they may face. Many are left wondering: Are Canadians safe when crossing the border?

In conclusion, Jasmine Mooney’s shocking detention by ICE serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and challenges surrounding immigration policies in the United States. As her family continues to advocate for her release, the broader implications of her case resonate with many Canadians and foreign nationals alike. The emotional impact of this situation is profound, and it underscores the urgent need for a reevaluation of immigration enforcement practices, particularly for those seeking to enter the U.S. for legitimate reasons. The hope remains that Mooney’s story will bring about change and ensure fair treatment for all individuals crossing borders in the future.