Trooper freed after ICE detention

A 21-year-old Wisconsin State Patrol officer was released from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody on Friday. The release came 24 hours after federal agents detained the trooper during a trip to visit family.

Carel Aaron Van Der Merwe, who is originally from South Africa, is now under an order of supervision. He must check in with ICE periodically. His attorney, Marc Christopher, confirmed the details to NewsNation.

Van Der Merwe has worked for the Wisconsin State Patrol for one year. He holds work authorization that remains valid until 2030. Prior to joining the patrol, he lived in New Mexico and earned a criminal justice degree.

The trooper entered the United States on a visa at age 14. His family has been waiting seven years for an asylum hearing. Christopher said his client wanted to serve in the U.S. military but was ineligible because he is not a permanent resident.

Christopher called the detention absurd. He noted that the family has been in the country lawfully while awaiting a decision on their immigration application. The attorney plans to discuss next steps with his client after he settles back into routine.

A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said Van Der Merwe entered in March 2019 with permission to stay until September 2019. The agency stated he overstayed his admission. The spokesperson added that work authorization does not confer legal status.

Immigration enforcement has been a priority for the Trump administration since the start of 2025. The White House has moved to revoke 200,000 temporary visas and increase ICE presence in sanctuary cities.