What was supposed to be an unforgettable solo adventure across the United States and Canada has turned into a distressing ordeal for 28-year-old Becky Burke.
The British backpacker has now spent two weeks in a US detention center after a visa issue left her stranded between borders.
Detained at the Canadian Border
Becky had been traveling across the US for a couple of months before attempting to cross into Canada on February 26.
Expecting a seamless transition, she instead found herself in handcuffs when border officials flagged an issue with her visa paperwork.
Canadian authorities informed her that her current visa did not permit her to stay with a local family in exchange for chores, suggesting she reapply with the correct documentation.
However, when she attempted to return to the US—where she still had a month left on her tourist visa—immigration officials refused her entry and detained her as an “illegal alien.”
A Father’s Plea for Help
Paul Burke, Becky’s 60-year-old father, has been campaigning tirelessly for his daughter’s release.
Speaking on Good Morning Britain, he expressed his frustration over the situation, emphasizing that the whole ordeal was a simple paperwork mix-up.
“We just want Becky home,” he said.
“She’s been locked up in conditions that are no different from a real prison.
She had all her belongings taken away and was forced to wear a jumpsuit.”
Paul also highlighted concerns over his daughter’s well-being.
As a vegan, Becky has been given nothing but rice, potatoes, and beans for the past two weeks.
“She told us she had to see the medic due to digestive issues—no one should be living like that over a visa issue.”
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Trip Gone Wrong
Becky had been documenting her journey through the US, sharing photos and sketches from her travels.
Before her detention, she had posted pictures of herself ice-skating in Central Park, running on a beach, and hiking through forests.
In one of her sketches, she reflected on how she loved catching glimpses of other people’s lives during her travels.
Now, she finds herself behind bars, with only limited access to communication and restricted exercise time.
Political Support and Calls for Action
As Becky remains in custody 5,000 miles away from home, her father has gained the support of local Labour MP Catherine Fookes.
The MP has raised Becky’s case with Foreign Office Minister Stephen Doughty and Foreign Secretary David Lammy.
A spokesperson for Fookes voiced deep concern over Becky’s situation, noting that she has been subjected to harsh conditions, including delayed food rations and limited contact with the outside world.
Uncertain Future
US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has indicated that Becky is likely to be deported, though no official decision has been made.
Her parents have pleaded for her to be allowed to return home voluntarily, and they are now hoping that UK Ambassador to the US Peter Mandelson can intervene.
For now, Becky remains in limbo at the Tacoma detention center, with no clear timeline for her release.
What Happens Next?
With legal and diplomatic efforts underway, Becky’s family is anxiously waiting for a resolution.
Will she be deported, or will authorities reconsider her case and allow her to leave the US on her own terms?
For now, all they can do is wait and hope for a swift end to this unexpected and grueling chapter of Becky’s journey.