PORTLAND, Ore. — A Portland mother has been released following months in federal custody , according to Congresswoman Maxine Dexter. Dexter, who advocated for the woman's release, announced the update Monday alongside Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley and Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici.

Jackie Merlos and her four U.S. citizen children were detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement in late June. Merlos was visiting her sister, a Canadian citizen, at Peace Arch Park along the U.S.-Canadian border. Agents from U.S. Customs and Border Protection detained Merlos as the sisters were saying goodbye, a close family friend told KGW.

"I'm so grateful to have my freedom today. So many people have been by my side in this long journey. I'm so appreciative. I can't wait to hug my babies. And t

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