PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Oregon Congresswoman Maxine Dexter (D-03) is calling for the release of a Portland woman who remains detained by immigration authorities despite her removal proceedings being terminated, according to the lawmaker.

On Thursday, Rep. Dexter announced the case against Kenia Jackeline Merlos was terminated, stating the judge acknowledged there is no legal basis for Immigration and Customs Enforcement to detain or deport Merlos, who has a valid visa application pending.

“Despite the ruling that there is no legal basis for Jackie’s deportation, the government has reserved appeal, and ICE is cruelly continuing to detain her away from her U.S. citizen children," Dexter said in a press release.

The case stems from June 28, when Merlos, her nine-year-old triplets and her s

See Full Page