A five-year-old boy, Liam Ramos, became the center of a harrowing situation after his father allegedly abandoned him while fleeing federal agents. The Department of Homeland Security released an image of Adrian Alexander Conejo Arias, Liam’s father, who is now at the heart of a complex immigration case.
Conejo Arias, an Ecuadorean citizen, entered the United States illegally and was previously released into the country. Authorities state there is no record of his family utilizing the CBP One app for entry, despite claims made by the family’s attorney. He was offered a voluntary return to his home country without facing immigration consequences, but declined that option.
The incident unfolded as agents approached Conejo Arias for apprehension. According to DHS officials, he made a desperate choice, fleeing and leaving his young son behind in frigid temperatures. The image of the boy quickly circulated online, sparking outrage and accusations.
Initial reports, fueled by some Democratic lawmakers, suggested Liam had been “kidnapped” by ICE agents while returning home from preschool. Claims circulated that the boy was arrested, but DHS officials vehemently deny this, stating the father’s actions directly led to the child being left alone.
“This little boy was abandoned by his own father,” explained DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “His own father was being approached by ICE agents when he darted, ran, and abandoned the child.” Agents remained with Liam, prioritizing his safety and well-being.
The situation took a heartbreaking turn when agents attempted to reunite Liam with his mother, only to be met with refusal. She would not accept custody of her son, leaving authorities struggling to find a safe haven for the child. ICE officers provided Liam with food and comfort, ensuring he was cared for during the ordeal.
“My officers stayed with the child. They cared for him,” stated ICE Executive Assistant Director of Enforcement and Removal Operations, Marcos Charles. “Took him to get something to eat from a drive-thru restaurant and spent hours ensuring he was taken care of.” Despite their efforts, the family initially refused to take Liam back into their home.
Both Liam and his father are now being held together at the Dilley Detention Center in Texas, a facility designed for families. The case has drawn the attention of lawmakers, with Representative Jasmine Crockett planning a visit to the detention center to demand answers regarding Liam’s welfare.
Crockett expressed outrage, highlighting what she believes is obstruction from the previous administration hindering congressional oversight. She vowed to uncover the truth and advocate for Liam’s well-being, stating her heart “aches for Liam’s family.”
Following the mother’s refusal to accept custody, Conejo Arias requested to remain with his son. Prior to that, Liam was treated with kindness by the responding officers, enjoying a meal and listening to music while they worked to secure his safety. The situation underscores the complex challenges faced during immigration enforcement.
DHS officials emphasize that standard procedure allows parents to choose whether to be removed with their children, or to designate a safe caregiver. This practice, they say, is consistent with policies implemented by previous administrations.
