Jasmine Mooney, a Canadian entrepreneur and actor known for her role in the American Pie movie franchise, was detained by US border authorities earlier this month. The incident occurred on March 3 at the San Ysidro border crossing while Mooney was attempting to file a new work visa application. Her previous visa had been revoked in November during a trip from Vancouver to Los Angeles. After being held in distressing conditions, Mooney was released over the weekend and returned to Vancouver.
The detention unfolded when US Customs and Border Protection officers arrested Mooney as she sought to resolve her visa situation. Reports indicate that she was held in a cell without basic amenities such as a blanket or pillow. For approximately two and a half days, Mooney had to endure being wrapped in aluminum foil for warmth.
"I have never in my life seen anything so inhumane," said Jasmine Mooney.
The situation escalated when Mooney, along with approximately 30 others, was removed from their cells at 3 a.m. for transfer to the San Luis detention center in Arizona. She was reportedly handcuffed and shackled during this transfer.
"We eventually learned that about 30 people, including Jasmine, were removed from their cells at 3 a.m. and transferred to the San Luis detention center in Arizona," shared Alexis Eagles, who has been closely following the case.
After enduring nearly two weeks of detention, Jasmine Mooney was released and arrived at Vancouver International Airport on Saturday morning.
"Thank you for all your messages of support. I’m sorry if I haven’t been able to respond to everyone – just got home after what felt like escaping a deeply disturbing psychological experiment," Jasmine Mooney expressed upon her return home.
The circumstances surrounding Mooney's detention have raised questions about the treatment of individuals by US border authorities, particularly those with revoked visas. The Canadian actor is currently processing the events that transpired during her time in detention.
"I’m still, to be honest, really processing everything," she admitted.