BETHESDA, Md. – A University of Maryland freshman and her mother were detained by federal immigration enforcement officials after reporting for a scheduled check‑in in Baltimore last week. The student, Maria Flores Garcia, graduated as valedictorian of the class of 2026 at Parkdale High School in Prince George’s County and is attending UMD on a scholarship to study public health.
Family’s account
According to her boyfriend, Cesar Saavedra, Garcia and her mother traveled together to the immigration check‑in, where both were taken into custody. Saavedra told reporters, “It’s obviously very hard for the moment, for the family. I’ve been trying to just stay as the most composed one, you could say, most calm one and just been trying to help out the family that’s detained and the family that is here outside as well.”
In a GoFundMe campaign launched by Saavedra, he noted that Garcia and her mother are from El Salvador. He described Garcia as “a very hardworking and intelligent young woman” who “graduated high school as valedictorian and is currently attending the University of Maryland, working toward building a better future for herself.” He added that her mother has been “an important part of her journey, and having them both detained has been heartbreaking for everyone who loves them.”
University response
University of Maryland officials issued a statement confirming that they were aware of the detention. “The University of Maryland is aware that one of our students was taken into custody off campus by immigration enforcement officials last week. Our thoughts are with our student and their family and friends, and we are working to provide resources when possible and appropriate,” the statement read.
The university did not elaborate on specific assistance being offered, but indicated that counseling and legal support resources would be made available through the campus Office of Student Affairs.
Context of immigration enforcement
The detention occurs amid the Trump administration’s continued focus on strengthening immigration enforcement nationwide. Recent policy directives have emphasized stricter compliance with immigration check‑in requirements and increased coordination between local law‑enforcement agencies and federal immigration officials. While the administration argues these measures protect public safety and uphold the rule of law, critics contend that they can disrupt families and communities, especially those who have contributed positively to local schools and economies.
Community reaction
Local community members and advocacy groups have expressed concern for Garcia’s situation. Some have called for the university to do more to protect undocumented students, while others have urged the administration to consider pathways to legal status for individuals who have demonstrated strong ties to the community.
Fox 5 DC reached out to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for comment but has not yet received a response.
What’s next?
Garcia’s legal team has not been publicly identified, and it is unclear when a hearing or release decision may be scheduled. The GoFundMe campaign has raised over $5,000 to assist with legal fees and family expenses while the case proceeds.
As the situation develops, the University of Maryland has pledged to keep the campus community informed and to continue offering support to the student and her family.
Original reporting: Arlington County | FOX 5 DC — read the source article.
