In a recent incident highlighting the complexities of U.S. immigration policies, Canadian actress and entrepreneur Jasmine Mooney, known for her role in "American Pie Presents: The Book of Love," was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at the U.S.-Mexico border. Mooney, 35, co-founder of the wellness brand Holy! Water, faced unexpected challenges while attempting to renew her work visa, leading to a 12-day detention that has raised concerns about the treatment of foreign nationals under the current U.S. administration.
Mooney's ordeal began in November 2024 when her three-year TN work visa was unexpectedly revoked during a trip from Vancouver to Los Angeles. In an effort to rectify her immigration status, she traveled to the San Ysidro border crossing on March 3, 2025, armed with a new job offer and the necessary paperwork to apply for a new visa. However, instead of being granted entry or instructed to return to Canada, Mooney was detained by U.S. authorities.
Describing her experience, Mooney recounted being held in a cold room for three days without proper bedding, forced to sleep on a mat with only an aluminum foil blanket. She was subsequently transferred to the Otay Mesa Detention Center in San Diego, where conditions did not improve. Mooney alleged that she and approximately 30 other women were shackled and transported to Arizona, enduring a 24-hour journey while restrained. Throughout her detention, Mooney was not charged with any crime, leading to questions about the necessity and humanity of her treatment.
Mooney's family expressed deep concern over her detention. Her father, Stephen Mooney, criticized the lack of due process and communication from U.S. authorities, stating that no one should endure such treatment, especially without being charged with a crime. Her mother, Alexis Eagles, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that while they did not contest the visa denial, the inhumane conditions of her detention were unacceptable.
The incident has also drawn attention from Canadian officials. British Columbia Premier David Eby condemned the actions of the U.S. government, expressing concerns about the safety and treatment of Canadians traveling to the United States. He questioned the unpredictability of the current U.S. administration and its impact on international relations and individual safety.
Mooney's experience underscores the broader implications of recent changes in U.S. immigration policy under President Donald Trump's administration. The enforcement of stricter immigration laws and the termination of certain humanitarian programs have led to increased detentions and deportations, affecting not only undocumented immigrants but also foreign nationals attempting to comply with legal processes.
After 12 days in detention, Mooney was released and returned to Vancouver. Upon her arrival, she expressed relief but also highlighted the ordeal she endured, noting the lack of communication and transparency throughout the process. Her case has sparked discussions about the treatment of foreign nationals and the need for humane and just immigration policies.
As the United States continues to navigate its immigration policies, cases like Mooney's serve as a poignant reminder of the human impact of these laws and the importance of balancing national security with individual rights and dignities.