An Illinois woman who gained national attention with allegations of being detained by immigration authorities for nearly two days is now the defendant in a $1 million defamation lawsuit after data revealed she was staying at a hotel and using spa services during that same period.
The plaintiff is Dale J. Schmidt, the Sheriff of Dodge County, Wisconsin. The lawsuit states that Sundas 'Sunny' Naqvi, 28, along with several other individuals, spread false information that damaged the reputation of the authorities.
Previously, Naqvi claimed she was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for approximately 43 hours after returning from Turkey on March 5. The story spread widely with the support of Kevin Morrison.
However, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that surveillance data showed Naqvi left the inspection area at Chicago O’Hare Airport after about 90 minutes and was not transferred to any detention facility.
The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office also confirmed there are no records showing Naqvi was ever held at the local jail.
During a press conference, Sheriff Schmidt released hotel invoices and messages showing that Naqvi checked into a hotel near the airport on the afternoon of March 5, utilizing dining, spa, and gym services throughout the time she was allegedly "detained."
Gas station surveillance footage also recorded Naqvi appearing outside in the early hours of March 7, coinciding with the time she claimed to be in custody.
Police officials stated they are not yet able to pursue criminal prosecution, but are pursuing a civil lawsuit to seek damages and clarify accountability.
The developments in this case highlight the risks of spreading unverified information, especially when a story quickly attracts national attention before being fully verified.
Currently, Naqvi and Morrison have not provided an official response.
