Becky Burke, a 28-year-old British tourist and comic book creator known as R.E. Burke, has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) due to visa issues. During her four-month backpacking trip across North America, she attempted to enter Canada but was denied entry due to an incorrect visa. Upon trying to re-enter the U.S., she was detained for violating immigration laws and is currently held at the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma, Washington.
Becky’s detention conditions have raised concerns. She is reportedly sharing a cell, subsisting on a limited vegan diet, and has restricted access to phone calls. Her family is struggling to assist her financially due to limitations in adding funds to her inmate account. They have requested her voluntary departure, which requires a judge’s approval, but have not received a clear timeline for her release.
The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office is in contact with local authorities regarding her case. This incident highlights the importance of understanding visa requirements and the potential consequences of visa violations during international travel.