The Department of Homeland Security shared a video capturing the moment a Canadian woman allegedly slapped a teenage girl on a New Jersey boardwalk. The confrontation occurred after the woman approached a group of friends wearing clothing with the words ‘Trump’ and ‘ICE.’ The video was posted on X, and the woman is now under U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody pending removal proceedings.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, Kaitlyn Tracey overstayed her visa, which expired on September 6, 2024, after entering the United States on April 14, 2024. DHS called her a ‘Maple Leaf Menace’ and stated, ‘This illegal alien who assaulted a teenager has no business being in our country.’
The incident report explains that Tracey confronted the teenage girl and friends, striking her without stopping. A Department spokesperson confirmed Tracey highlighted the nearly 70% of ICE arrests involving illegal immigrants charged with or convicted of crimes. Her arrest followed a controlled transfer facilitated by the Point Pleasant Beach Police Department.
Matthew Geroni, who identifies as Tracey’s husband, disputed the allegations in an NJ.com interview. He claimed the incident was exaggerated, saying, ‘My wife has never been in trouble throughout her life. This minor situation, which initially was inconsequential, has spiraled out of control due to conservative online attention.’
The probable cause affidavit obtained by Fox News Digital states Tracey verbally berated the group for wearing patriotic-colored sweatpants displaying ‘Trump’ and ‘ICE.’ Investigators allege she approached the victim and struck her in the face and body.
Police attempted to stop Tracey, but she refused to identify herself. She was identified later through social media and passport details provided upon entering the U.S. Geroni posted emotional social media videos following Tracey’s arrest, seeking an immigration attorney and urging for help. He said, ‘I need help. I need an immigration lawyer… I need my wife.’
Geroni started a GoFundMe campaign to cover Tracey’s legal and immigration costs. The campaign was removed for violating the platform’s policies on fundraisers for legal defense related to violent crimes. A GoFundMe spokesperson confirmed, ‘The fundraiser was removed following our policy and fully refunded.’
The release of the surveillance video drew reactions from Capitol Hill. Rep. Riley Moore, R-W.Va., wrote on X, ‘Oh, Canada. She’s headed back your way!’ thanking the DHS Secretary for the actions.
Tracey’s attorney declined to comment, though records indicate a court appearance in Ocean County Superior Court scheduled for August 4. The situation continued to attract attention as surveillance footage and affidavits came to light.