A Canadian woman, Kaitlyn Tracey, 33, is facing deportation from the United States following an alleged assault on a teenage girl wearing MAGA-branded clothing during Fourth of July celebrations. Tracey is currently detained at Delaney Hall, an immigration facility in New Jersey, which her husband, Matthew Geroni, describes as having hellish and squalid conditions.
According to police reports, Tracey confronted a group of teenagers who were wearing clothing reportedly emblazoned with 'Trump' and 'ICE.' The confrontation escalated when Tracey allegedly slapped one of the teens. She now faces charges including endangering the welfare of a child, simple assault, harassment, and obstruction.
Geroni disputes the police account, telling the Daily Mail that his wife was provoked by the teenagers, who he claims were causing mayhem on the boardwalk and pushed and shoved her. He stated that police initially considered the incident minor but later issued an arrest warrant after reviewing surveillance footage, which he believes was taken out of context.
Tracey was initially held at the Ocean County jail before being transferred to Delaney Hall. Geroni mentioned that an immigration detainer was placed on his wife at the last minute, preventing her release from the county jail. He also expressed concern over the conditions at Delaney Hall, relaying that his wife was left in a room with the lights on for 24 hours upon arrival and found communication difficult due to most other detainees speaking Spanish.
Geroni, who has publicly expressed anti-Republican sentiments, suggested that former President Donald Trump is partly responsible for fostering hostility that leads to such incidents. He claims Trump is emboldening individuals who are proud of their hate rather than love.
Tracey's husband attempted to raise funds for her legal defense through a GoFundMe page, but it was reportedly taken down after being reported. GoFundMe policy prohibits fundraisers for individuals accused of crimes.
Geroni stated his desire to move to Canada with his wife if necessary, emphasizing his commitment to her. He has had limited contact with Tracey since her detention.