Father 'deeply concerned' for British cartoonist locked up at Tacoma ICE detention center

Becky Burke, a 28-year-old British cartoonist, is currently detained at the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma, Washington, after being classified as an "illegal alien" while traveling to Canada. Her father, Paul Burke, is expressing deep concern over the conditions of her detention, especially given her clean criminal record. ICE confirmed her detention, stating it was due to a violation of her visa terms, as Burke was participating in Workaway, which involves work in exchange for food and accommodation. This arrangement is against the rules of the Visa Waiver Program, which prohibits any form of compensated work. Legal expert Abtin Bahador argues that more compassion could have been shown by CBP, suggesting they could have facilitated her return home instead of detaining her.

Burke's situation raises questions about the handling of immigration laws and the need for humane treatment of travelers. Paul Burke is actively seeking help to secure his daughter's release from ICE detention. The case has garnered attention, highlighting the complexities of immigration rules and their real-world implications for individuals.