New Jersey mother deported to Mexico after 30 years, leaving teenage daughter behind
Jul 24, 2025 · Atlantic City, NJ, Mexico

Patricia Balbuena Soto, a mother of three who had lived in New Jersey for approximately 30 years since age 19, was arrested on July 24, 2025, by Atlantic City Police on charges including criminal mischief and property damage. She was transferred to ICE custody on July 25, 2025, and deported to Mexico on August 5, 2025. According to DHS, Balbuena Soto had been previously removed from the country four times and illegally reentered a fifth time, which constituted a felony. Her 17-year-old daughter told Newsweek she felt alone after the separation and was forced to navigate daily life without her parent.
Timeline
Aug 5, 2025—Balbuena Soto deported to Mexico, separating her from her teenage daughter and other family members in the United States
Jul 25, 2025—Balbuena Soto transferred to ICE custody
Jul 24, 2025—Patricia Balbuena Soto arrested by Atlantic City Police on charges including criminal mischief and property damage
Sources
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