Autistic woman sues DHS over brutal arrest

Aliya Rahman, a software engineer with autism and physical disabilities, has filed a Federal Tort Claims Act claim against the Department of Homeland Security. This administrative complaint, a precursor to a lawsuit, details alleged "brutal tactics and conduct" by federal immigration enforcement officers during her arrest on January 13th. Rahman was forcibly removed from her vehicle, with its window smashed, while en route to a doctor's appointment.

Rahman was subsequently taken to a federal detention center where she claims her requests for medical attention were ignored for hours, leading to her nearly losing consciousness. She testified to Congress in February about this experience, emphasizing her belief that she almost died. The complaint asserts violations of constitutional law, disability law, and agency policies regarding use of force and medical care.

This legal action follows a prior incident in February, where Rahman was removed and arrested at the State of the Union address, though charges were not pursued. Rahman stated her intent to sue is to demonstrate that legal recourse is possible for others facing similar treatment. Her legal team is prepared to proceed to court if the FTCA claim is denied or unsatisfactory.

The lawsuit seeks monetary damages, including compensation for medical bills and over $700 in damages to her car. Rahman views this as a duty to push back against what she describes as excessive federal enforcement that has traumatized communities. The complaint argues federal officers violated mandatory duties of care owed to her under federal and state law.