CONCORD, N.H. — In a shocking turn of events, Lucia Lopez Belloza, a 19-year-old freshman at Babson College, was deported to Honduras just days before Thanksgiving. This incident has raised significant legal questions regarding the removal order issued against her when she was a child. Despite a judge's order on November 21 that she remain in Massachusetts, Lopez Belloza was already en route to Texas, ultimately leading to her deportation just two days after detention at Boston's airport.

Government attorney Mark Sauter noted that the Boston judge lacked jurisdiction due to her transfer already being in progress. On the other hand, Lopez Belloza's attorney argues that she was unaware of her longstanding removal order and that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) effectively concealed information regarding her whereabouts during the deportation process. According to her lawyer, Todd Pomerleau, ICE's database provided no clarity on her case, and communication was severely hindered.

Pomerleau emphasized that they have been left guessing both where Lopez Belloza is and why she is being held, calling the situation distressing. Lopez Belloza, who arrived in the U.S. at the age of eight, was ordered removed in 2016, a decision her attorney claims she knew nothing about.

The government argues various legal avenues were available to her to contest the order, yet Lopez Belloza's youth rendered her unaware of these options. As she now resides with her grandparents in Honduras, she is determined to complete her studies remotely, supported by her college. Her attorney remains committed to addressing the legal aspects surrounding her case, with a formal response due by December 11.

She’s just a remarkable young woman,” Pomerleau stated, expressing hope for her future despite the traumatic events.