New Zealander Everlee Wihongi Released from US Immigration Detention

Everlee Wihongi, a New Zealander, has been released from U.S. immigration detention after being held for two months. Wihongi was detained by ICE while attempting to return to the U.S. on a Green Card following a holiday in New Zealand, due to a 2016 cannabis conviction. Her lawyer confirmed her release, and she is expected to reunite with her family soon. The family expressed immense relief, describing the ordeal as "terrible" and highlighting the difficult conditions, including crowded housing. Wihongi was initially detained in California and later transferred to Arizona. The family has been actively working with legal teams and media to secure her release. Her release marks the end of a stressful two-month period for her and her family.

This case sheds light on the complexities of U.S. immigration law and the potential consequences of past convictions for non-citizens attempting to maintain residency.