Detained for a Dismissed Charge | Auckland News

Everlee Wihongi, a New Zealander detained for over 70 days in U.S. immigration facilities after a dismissed cannabis conviction, recounts harrowing conditions—being stripped of her identity, woken at dawn to risk missing meals, and witnessing children and elders shackled during transfers. Though family support became her lifeline, hope in detention also deepened heartbreak. With consular aid from New Zealand and a court-ordered dismissal of her conviction, she was finally released—shocked by the outpouring of love from strangers and determined to ensure no one else faces isolation without support. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/15b252f31119c548