Jasmine Mooney, a Canadian entrepreneur and actor known for her role in the American Pie franchise, was detained for nearly two weeks by US border authorities due to an incomplete work visa application. The incident occurred on March 3 in San Diego, California, where Mooney faced what she described as “inhumane” conditions during her detention.
- Canadian entrepreneur Jasmine Mooney detained in US
- Detention lasted almost two weeks inhumane conditions
- Work visa revoked before traveling to the US
- Mooney's mother criticized US border authorities' actions
- Mooney released and returned to Vancouver airport
- Described experience as a disturbing psychological experiment
Mooney’s work visa had been revoked in November while she traveled from Vancouver to Los Angeles. Upon attempting to re-enter the US with an incomplete application on March 3, she was arrested instead of being sent back to Canada or advised on how to rectify her situation. Her mother stated that upon being detained at the San Ysidro border crossing—one of the busiest land crossings globally—Mooney faced confusion from guards about her presence there.
During her time in detention, Mooney spent three nights at one center before being transferred to another facility in Arizona under distressing circumstances. According to her mother, detainees were moved at 3 AM without prior notice and kept in cramped cells lacking basic amenities such as natural light or proper bedding.
- No natural light and constant fluorescent lighting.
- Lack of mats or blankets for sleeping arrangements.
- Limited access to bathroom facilities.
Mooney recounted feeling appalled by the treatment she received during her detention, describing it as akin to a “deeply disturbing psychological experiment.” After enduring nearly two weeks of confinement without formal charges or a criminal record, she was finally released and returned home on March 18. Upon arrival at Vancouver International Airport, Mooney expressed relief but noted that she was still processing the traumatic experience.
The case of Jasmine Mooney underscores significant issues within immigration enforcement practices affecting both citizens and non-citizens alike. As discussions around immigration policy continue, this incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by individuals navigating complex legal systems while seeking opportunities abroad.
