Advocates Fear US Agents Are Using ‘Wellness Checks’ on Children as a Prelude to Arrests
The Trump administration’s $45 billion for detention is raising fresh concerns over law enforcement visits to families.
Photo illustration by 731; Photo: John Moore/Getty Images
A group of armed federal agents greeted a family in Spokane, Washington, when they opened their front door to run an errand. They bolted back into the house. Undeterred, the agents pounded on the doors and windows, asking for a 16-year-old boy by name.
From inside, the family agreed to speak to the agents and answer a few questions: Was the boy going to school? Was he being fed? How did he injure himself in gym class? Then, the agents left. They haven’t returned.