“But after William B. Ross died without making estate plans, his two sons sought to take control of his modest assets totaling less than $190,000 in value, including the home in Anniston, Alabama, where Marie-Thérèse Ross resided.”

“The sons rerouted mail from the residence, leading their stepmother to miss an immigration-related appointment, Calhoun County Probate Judge Shirley A. Millwood noted in a court order earlier this month.”

“Millwood accused one son — a former Alabama State Trooper who now works as a federal employee — of using his position to prompt the detention of his stepmother days before a hearing over the estate.”

“Marie-Thérèse Ross was taken into custody in her nightgown and unable to bring her phone, passport and other identification with her, records show.”

“The stepson denied involvement in his stepmother’s arrest in court, but Millwood said evidence indicated he knew in advance of the arrest and received a text message confirming it shortly afterward.”

“His brother then arrived at the home to change the locks shortly after federal immigration agents removed their stepmother.”

“In an April 10 ruling, Millwood ordered the stepsons to allow Ross to retrieve her clothes, phone, documents and other possessions from her late husband’s home.”

“Millwood also urged the federal government to investigate the circumstances of Ross’ arrest “in light of the ongoing national events surrounding the distrust of federal law enforcement officers and the many investigations ongoing of corruption within our government.””

“In an emailed statement, the city of Anniston said its police department had “no involvement” in Ross’ arrest.”