Relative of White House staffer Karoline Leavitt allegedly detained by ICE and facing deportation in bombshell revelation

A relative of White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt is facing deportation to Brazil, leaving behind her 11-year-old son after being taken into custody by ICE.

Bruna Ferreira, the mother of Leavitt’s nephew, was detained during the kind of immigration enforcement actions that Leavitt has publicly supported as part of the administration’s policies.

Ferreira previously lived with Michael Leavitt, Karoline’s brother, in New Hampshire, where they raised their son before their relationship ended. Since then, the boy has lived full-time with his father.

A source familiar with the family told the Daily Beast that Leavitt and Ferreira have not been in contact for years, and emphasized that the child has never lived with his mother. Michael Leavitt said his priority remains the safety and privacy of his son.

A Homeland Security spokesperson described Ferreira as a “criminal illegal alien from Brazil,” claiming she has a prior battery arrest and overstayed a B2 tourist visa that required her to leave the U.S. in 1999. Officials say she is currently being held at the South Louisiana ICE Processing Center awaiting removal proceedings.

Her family disputes the government’s characterization. A GoFundMe launched by Ferreira’s sister argues that Ferreira grew up in the U.S., maintained DACA status, and has worked to live responsibly. The fundraiser also says the situation has been emotionally difficult for the 11-year-old.

The campaign is seeking donations to help cover legal costs as Ferreira fights to remain in the United States.