WASHINGTON

US Rep. Joaquin Castro said Tuesday that a two‑month‑old infant who is suffering from bronchitis and spent weeks in immigration detention in the state of Texas was deported by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) along with his family.

Castro said he confirmed the deportation of Juan Nicolas, his 16‑month‑old sister, and both of their parents after speaking with the family’s attorney.

"According to their attorney, ICE deported the family with only the money that they had in their commissary—a total of $190.

"To unnecessarily deport a sick baby and his entire family is heinous," he said, adding they were abandoned across the border in Mexico.

Juan Nicolas spent three weeks in the Dilley Trailer Prison.

He was taken to the hospital Monday night after falling ill with bronchitis. Despite the medical condition, Castro said Nicolas was released from the hospital around midnight.

"We are laser-focused on tracking them down, holding ICE accountable for this monstrous action, demanding specific details on their whereabouts and wellbeing, and ensuring their safety," he said.

ICE and US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have faced intense scrutiny after federal agents killed two US citizens in January during immigration enforcement operations in the state of Minnesota, sparking protests and calls for accountability.