A German tattoo artist’s holiday in Mexico took an unexpected turn after she attempted to enter the United States through the San Diego border and was detained by immigration authorities.
Detained at the Border
Berlin-based artist Jessica Brösche embarked on a three-week trip to the U.S. but has now spent over a month in an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility, far beyond her planned departure. Her ordeal began on January 25 when she attempted to cross from Tijuana into the U.S. with her American friend, clothing designer Nikita Lofving. At the San Ysidro port of entry, Brösche was detained by immigration officials. Despite initial expectations that she would be swiftly returned to Germany, she remains in ICE custody at the Otay Mesa Detention Facility in San Diego County.
Visa Violation Leads to Detention
Lofving stated that Brösche had planned to continue a long-running tattoo project in Los Angeles as part of an informal exchange between friends. In an interview with CNN, Lofving described the arrangement as a barter, emphasizing that Brösche was not seeking financial compensation. However, U.S. immigration officials interpreted this as an intent to work in the country, which would violate the terms of her tourist entry. ICE confirmed that Brösche was detained for “the violation of the terms and conditions of her admission,” while Customs and Border Protection (CBP) stated that foreign nationals denied entry must be transferred to ICE if they cannot immediately leave the country.
Solitary Confinement and Delays in Release
Reports indicate that Brösche spent her first eight days in solitary confinement upon entering U.S. custody. She is reportedly eager to return to Germany, but her release remains uncertain. Her family and friends had hoped she would be allowed to return by March 11, but ongoing delays persist.
Concerns Over Prolonged Detention
Legal experts in the U.S. have described Brösche’s extended detention as ‘extremely concerning.’ Meanwhile, the German Consulate in Los Angeles has confirmed that it is aware of the case and remains in close communication with U.S. authorities, as well as with Brösche’s family and friends.
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