U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has filed a detainer against Nina Jaaskelainen, a Finnish national accused of assaulting a mother, her infant child, and their dog in New Smyrna, Florida. Jaaskelainen, who has lived in the United States illegally for over 26 years, is now facing deportation proceedings.
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Jaaskelainen first entered the U.S. on a B2 tourist visa in April 1999 and failed to leave by its expiration date in July of that year. She has remained unlawfully in the country ever since.
Earlier this month, Jaaskelainen was arrested and charged with battery and domestic violence after allegedly throwing coffee on a mother, her baby, and their dog during an altercation about the family’s unleashed pet. The incident reportedly occurred when Jaaskelainen confronted the mother while she was walking with her child and dog. According to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, Jaaskelainen became aggressive and threw the beverage at the group, dousing all three.
She has since pleaded not guilty in court. In her statement to law enforcement, Jaaskelainen claimed she only intended to throw the coffee on the dog, alleging it had agitated her own pet. She also believed the victims were on her property, according to local reports.
Homeland Security officials expressed outrage over the situation. “For over TWO DECADES, Jaaskelainen has been in our country illegally, skirting the law without consequence. Now, a baby, a mother, and a dog have been assaulted by her,” said DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin.
ICE has made it clear that they will pursue deportation to ensure Jaaskelainen does not continue to pose a threat. “ICE lodged an arrest detainer to ensure she can never victimize another American family,” McLaughlin added.
The case has intensified scrutiny on immigration enforcement policies, with ICE vowing to act swiftly under the Trump administration’s directives.
