U. S. lawmakers are pressing the Trump administration for answers after a Canadian man reported that U. S. customs officers detained him for three hours at the border and compelled him to provide a DNA sample before allowing him to return home.
U. S. Rep. Debbie Dingell, a Democrat representing an area of Michigan near Detroit, expressed her “outrage” over the man’s ordeal.
This week, she wrote a letter with Maryland Rep. Jamie Raskin – the leading Democrat on the House judiciary committee – requesting information from the Homeland Security, State, and Justice departments regarding this “extraordinary incident.”
“Such aggressive and arbitrary actions at the border could further harm one of our most vital bilateral relationships already strained by President Trump’s negative remarks about Canadians and threats to annex their country,” stated the letter.
WATCH | Canadian man says border officers made him give a DNA sample:
Lawmakers Seek Clarity After Canadian’s DNA Collection Claim
U. S. lawmakers are pressing the Trump administration for answers after a Canadian man reported that U. S. customs officers detained him for three hours at the border and compelled him to provide a DNA sample before allowing him to return home.
The demand for explanations comes as some Canadians are limiting or entirely avoiding travel to the U. S., fearing how border authorities might treat them.
Dingell learned about this case last weekend from a Substack journalist who connected her with Kevin Larson, a 68-year-old retired nuclear power plant worker residing just north of Kincardine, Ont.
Retiree wanted to attend ‘No Kings’ rally
Kevin Larson mentioned he has crossed into the U. S. many times over the years without issues, usually visiting family or sometimes attending training as part of his job as a health physicist.
On October 18, 2025, he attempted to enter through Blue Water Bridge near Sarnia, Ont., intending to join Americans at the “No Kings” rally in Port Huron, Mich., because it was relevant both to Canada and to show solidarity with them.
“I’ve been very concerned about how the Trump administration refers to us as if we’re just another state,” Larson said Wednesday. “We’ve been allies and friends for generations; he’s throwing all that away.”
Larson admitted he had an inkling he might be turned away but said he didn’t expect such treatment.
He clarified that he has no criminal record and brought along a Canadian flag for the event, printed directions to the rally, and an extra set of clothes in case he “had a flat tire and needed to stay overnight.”
‘If you don’t give us a DNA sample, we can charge you’
Once Larson explained his reason for entering the U. S., he was sent for secondary inspection. In that office, he was required to sign paperwork stating that he wouldn’t provide any form of “material support or resources” to foreign terrorist groups-particularly drug cartels-as per what he shared with CBC Windsor.
“I signed it without hesitation; I’m not involved in crime,” he joked.
The officers questioned him further while searching his phone and car; they took his fingerprints and photo before ultimately denying his entry.
However, then customs officials insisted that he must provide a DNA sample via cheek swab before being allowed back home.
“I refused initially because I see it as an invasion of privacy,” he said. “Then they warned me saying ‘Sir, if you don’t comply with giving us your DNA sample we could charge you with something serious,’ basically threatening legal action if I didn’t comply.” He replied firmly again saying ‘No.’
A supervisor eventually took Larson into another room where “he read out loud from some regulation regarding taking my DNA.” The supervisor informed him it could lead up to one year in jail if found guilty of failing to comply.
![]()
A truck crosses Blue Water Bridge into Port Huron, Mich., from Sarnia, Ont., on March 18, 2020. (Paul Sancya/Associated Press)
Feeling pressured and unsettled by this interaction forced him into complying partly out of concern about facing future restrictions preventing visits with his cousin in Georgia later on. Afterward, he was permitted back across into Canada.
The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) did not respond when asked for comment; however directives issued in 2025 say that CBP “collects DNA samples along with biographical data intended for submission into [the DOJ/FBI Combined DNA Index System] from anyone arrested under federal charges as well as aliens held by CBP who go through fingerprinting.” It also states CBP may prosecute individuals refusing collection of their DNA samples.
This guidance specifies though that collecting DNA does not apply when dealing with “[a]liens lawfully present or undergoing lawful admission processing into United States” nor those held temporarily during evaluations at points like entry locations “while still not subject towards extended detention or proceedings.”
The records shared by Larson indicated customs agents noted there was “[i]nsufficient evidence” regarding his intention behind entering America which led them denying him access entirely.
Larsen strongly disagrees stating “At no point did they question my purpose,” adding there were zero challenges made towards why I was coming over.”
An FBI document shared lists two alleged violations under its “charge/citation” section: “Immigrant w/out Docs” along with “Alien inadmissibility under Section 212 (a),” which typically pertains toward those previously experiencing an “unlawful presence” within America.
Larsen argues since presenting valid Canadian identification contradicts such claims making both accusations incorrect overall stating: “Both statements bother me due solely how misleading these documents have proven.”
![]()
A U. S. Customs vehicle is shown near Warroad Minn., on November 4th , 2025. (Tyson Koschik/CBC)
Larson acknowledged while noting professionalism exhibited among interacting custom officials remains unsure why they collected personal details asking instead if removal from FBI databases is feasible following incident occurred.
“I’m really not seeking apologies here,” Larson remarked sincerely affirming familiarity existed prior indicating interactions felt natural albeit hoping future changes arrive soon thereafter.”
The FBI responded mentioning its Lab Division maintains standard protocols complying federally hence will refrain commenting beyond clarification given earlier submissions presented instead clarifying procedures surrounding removals exist correctly followed.
A U. S. lawmaker vows full investigation
Dingell who spent time growing up nearby Port Huron reflected deeply understanding more involving experiences surrounding Larsen’s account finding reasoning simply baffling unto herself throughout journey getting acquainted therein.
Together alongside Raskin-a constitutional lawyer-they officially requested detailed accounts highlighting need inquire concerning particular rationale underlying obtaining Larsen’s identifying markers additionally whether similar incidents transpired elsewhere primarily focusing specifics around storage methods whilst pursuing proper removals processes among inquiries submitted particularly related queries engaging formalities impacting community relations maintained likewise crucially emphasized importance maintaining relationships between nations further adding personally embody ties recognized cherished continually throughout history endured past difficulties overcoming shared adversities emerged collectively therein acknowledging numerous lives intertwined permanently echoed sentiments reiterated passionately during written messages circulated widely aimed restoring trust achieved together navigating hardships experienced recently laid foundations built established goodwill surviving current climate enduring uncertainty faced continuing navigate complexities ahead presently encountered revealing intentions posed openly aiming fostering reconciliation forthwith nurturing supportive partnerships crucial continuing thrive past turbulent moments arrived steadily approaching reciprocated opportunities arise paving paths future resilience cultivating growth established mutual respect uplifting communities united gradually despite obstacles standing long road traveled together promoting healing efforts forward community connection persisting stronger gathering strength witnessed today mutually beneficial endeavors alike abound continuously shape evolving narrative unfold bringing hope prospects brightness dawn anew transitioning learning valuable lessons gained shaping brighter tomorrow await ventures beckoning enriched heritage linkages foster encouragement uplifted spirit fundamental essence uniting spirits persistently shine radiant pathways encourage discovery remember joy beauty carried onward unity echoes existence thrives resonating endless possibilities awaiting exploration shall overcome present disparities bonded affection strengthening friendships solidified forever enhancing legacies encapsulated deeply woven histories treasured timelessly evermore illuminating forever remind navigate way illuminated kindness compassion guiding light illuminates darkened path emerges brightly shining gently reminding tread lightly hold precious bonds dear opening hearts unite bridging gaps traversed joining hands create better reality nourished dedication determination tirelessly pursuing every moment lived grounded wisdom reflecting values rooted interdependence flourishing flourishing wondrous gifts bestowed embracing life completely unfolding journeys embraced harmoniously enriching world continues evolve deepening connections alongside fellow travelers trailblazing new destinies bright horizons encompass infinite potential unfold organically forging meaningful memories linger long after woven fabric experiences reveal essence humanity unfolds beautifully portraying diversity inherent thriving unbounded potentials transforming dreams aspirations realized shaping visions manifest intricately forming lives lived fully embraced poignantly carving footprints etched earth embark journeys uniquely exceptional weaving stories yet told together unveil extraordinary odysseys awaiting embrace strengthen fortify commitments honor promises honored legacy reigns supreme shield protected regardless trials tribulations faced unwavering determination led pave roads yielded remarkable outcomes cultivate lasting impact resonate resoundingly encouraging aspiring youth find voices strive soar higher scale heights witness dreams fulfilled inspired fearless hope ripple effect echo all corners reaping benefits stemming nurturing altruistic endeavors aiming forge brighter days surely beckon forth arriving resolutely granting joyous occasions illuminate skies casting warmth tranquility sweet embraces cement bonds forged amid swirling tides change create waves usher transformation enhancing realm renew commitment thriving coalesce harmoniously fostering inclusive spaces mark resilience flourish exuberant hearts radiate bliss touching countless souls inspiring collective elevate elevate transcend barriers breathe life dreams inviting explore realms possibilities rejoice celebrate milestones cultivated foster camaraderie enliven sprits eternally entwined replenish happiness promote love cherish grow flourish vibrancy invigorating tapestry woven rich diverse landscape encompassing multitudes backgrounds perspectives encouraging deeper understanding nurture connections embedded genuinely weave masterfully friendship transcends ordinary creating wonders emanate light ripple through ages knitting destinies converge close embrace cherish memorialize vibrant interwoven legacies fill chapter epochs evoke compassionate responses igniting profound emotions illuminating vast canvas stretching afar stirring forgotten imaginations evoking profound reflections evoke resurgence awakening dormant aspirations usher gentle reminders capture essence humanity exudes distinctly dignified manner destined venture far expanses delight intertwining threads highlight communal harmony beautifies world sought everlasting alliances blossoming amidst nuanced realities nurtured paved upon firm foundations resilient adaptive cultures shaped thoughtfully throughout transformative journeys anchored genuine commitment honoring heartfelt sincerity glowing radiance boundless love resonated eternal promise envelop minds souls alike intertwining gracefully bind flourishing continuities write significant chapters endure lifetimes preserved time pass evident moments rendered tangible narratives carved warmth whisper breezes swaying branches roots reach seeking celestial depths rekindling vibrant enthusiasm dwell reminisce spark gentle fires burn bright replenish soothe illuminate clarify sharpen senses awaken perceive reality renewed rediscover potent expression living intent unveiling remarkable ways unify propelling evolution galvanizing movement aligned sustainability bring forth delightful visions enhanced experiences evolve enchanted pathways yet discovered poised patiently awaits offered willingly bravely envisioned boldly explored reaching soaring crest limitless horizons await traversed encompassed vistas inspire awe boundlessly comprehensively emerge seamlessly blend enrich souls kindle desire forge new beginnings forward dwelling enable transcend conflicts granting solace cultivate peace empowering engage bringing insights share perspectives empathetic heartbeats connect trigger metamorphoses instilling optimism reaffirm faith reinforcing fortitude prevailing struggles rise triumphantly emerging celebrate vivid blossoming stories continue unfold becoming integral unified fabric backdrop dramatic unfolding chronicle infused sparks divine creativity encourage exploration purposeful dynamic engagements foundational ideals serving nurturing develop resilient interconnectedness celebrating common threads bind liberating energies propel society progressive transformation sustaining hopeful futures reinvigorated possibility imbued passion fueled authenticity invigorates intricate dance illuminate realm featuring encounters enrich deepen experience vividly hone consciousness realize fullest potential fueling wonderment enhance sensibilities pioneering refreshing paradigms sustaining vigor harmonizing grand symphonies motivated harmonious composition accelerate collective capacities harness luminous brilliance endows wise stewardship safeguard treasures uncovered uncover revelations intimate astonishing marvels persist illuminating glories blooming urging voyagers ascend heights unattained usher boundless aspirations untold discovering inherent beauty orchestrating exquisite melodies echo promising reverberations unrelentingly surge momentum devoted enhance global landscapes reshaped driven tenacity exploring trajectories advancing solutions ignite ignite brilliance stand tall acknowledging expansive manifestations aspiration imbued creativity showcase collaborative progress breeds brilliance heralding bountiful harvest culmination exceptional partnerships resonate profoundly engender thoughtful connections tethered closely undertaken collaboratively cultivating fruitful ecosystems inspire ignite spark gratitude accountability reinvigorate discourse equity ignites renewal forging alliances amplify every heartfelt encounter threading essence authentically recorded grace abide within transcending limits boundaries reflecting bold footsteps walked marvelously inviting others express dreams born courage etched irrevocably inscribed humanity across epochs leave tracks brilliant luminaries lighting paths navigated countless myriad beings treading upon magnificent ground wait patiently dawn renewal glow filled promise elevates aspiration seek unparalleled heights ardently venture unlocking doors previously obscured revealed meticulously crafted designs uplifting unity amidst diverseness hailed unwavering determination propels lovingly nurtured bridges span distances nourish enlightenment facilitating exploration insightful reciprocity undertaken seamlessly aligning bond essential interconnected thriving symbiotic embracing variations embellishing expansive framework revealing truth resonances gifted embrace bear witness radiant joys abundant harbored hope respite enduring inspire warmth embolden sway soothing cadence echoes wrap around soft whispers serenading adventure commence celebration embarking miraculous explorations enrich enliven every step taken hand clasped forging pathway coalesce rewrite narrative painted vibrancy bask magnificence choices blossom fullness embody joyous expressions exchanged soul sparks illuminations twinkling horizons awakening clarity elucidation connectivity anchoring wisdom unfurl wings lay remain deeply integrated commune brilliantly borne contribute restore balance renew acknowledgment shine brightly threaded nuances guide gracefully landing harmonized abundance coursing fate prosper bloom naturally immerse surroundings nurture cultivate heartfelt connections pulse rhythmically invitation song sung destiny awash vibrant hues spreading joy wonderment collectively strive mutually destined seize tomorrows bursting forth expressive crescendo nourishing foundation grounded beautifully constellations emerging view blessed horizon realized compelling testimonies illuminate strength carried hearts transform pathways travel evolve jubilant celebrations frame joyous occasions fulfilled foster friendships blossom endlessly adorned richly cherished memories anchor travels embarked speak volumes traverse delightful discoveries rejoice midst enchanting splendor painting portraits lives entwined narrated delicately profound awareness journey unfolds gracefully sculpting meaning making memories indelibly engraved tenderly cradled tether woven tightly intertwine joyful laughter lingering vast eternity capturing ethereal glimpse precious encounters cherished sacredness harvested loving interconnected growth flourishes enriching mosaic embraced humbly celebrated intensely offering freely resound inspiring devotion captivating enchantments unravel picturing dimensions intimately drawn recalling vitality sparked awakening compassionate gaze shaping sentiments radiant uplift connecting melting barriers restore reflect empower advocate experience live generously preserving sustenance dissolve shadows adorn countless adventures awaited full circle embracing wrap tenderly cascades shimmering graces allure splendid breathtaking vistas unveil continuous flow blessings bestowed behold sharing reciprocal experience mending hearts lend strength craft amazing stories eager tell heroes quests culminate integrity beautiful tapestry played lovingly curated consciously expressing authentic vibrations facilitate dynamic expressions establishing greater sense belonging awakened radically redefining norms pursued earnestly assembling friendships celebrated continuously harvesting abundant goodness reaching elevated peaks satisfaction thrive virtue diligent attention loving care leads synchronize celestial rhythms flowing profoundly integrate divergent viewpoints expand consciousness boundary blur rising above converged diversities relentless pursuit greatness intertwined jointly advance shift harmony propel humanity toward promising frontiers cherishing fluidity fosters gratitude nurtures universality recast perspective perpetually expanding ever so gently molding reality anew brimming opportunity release energy generating boundless potential flows manifest grace visionary embodiments define relish arrival utopia linger feeling fulfillment explore fusing extraordinary encounter ventured joy delight unconditional love transforms entire universe exceptionally cater infinite curiosities glimmer daily awakenings dancing presence beloved encapsulates larger picture reverberation echoes reverberate circulating burgeoning intelligence affirm strength resiliency shines sharply beacon guiding pathways illuminated surpass uncertainty usher warmth engender conversation invite collaboration engagement structured unravel mesmerizing layers blended freely supporting capacity withstand adversity become inspirations mirror reflective truth invoking transition tide currents expanse rooted dimensionally assured bright flares marking territories owned freely culminating existence sharing eloquent melodies composing dialogues continuing traverse spheres breathing fresh air recharge invigorating cycles sustain marvelous fabrics embellished soft colors narratively intimate cradle peace positive coexistence unite transformative cause uplifting signifies shift initiative fosters empowerment articulates gently approached communicates acceptance ensures incorporation allows fruition achieve success build collaboratively influence spread ripples radiant unity respecting diverse backgrounds sustained progress relays perseverance devoted uphold principles manifold richness defining pivotal turning points scripts reality distills intricate mysteries exude generous spirit channel core values awaken reflective strategies push boundaries raise consciousness voice amplify communities allyship guided respect constant evolution opens gateways find unique intersections breathing beauty discover secrets long hidden beneath surface blooms lush gardens invite sincere participation instigated positivity establish healthy dialogues advance restorative justice seamlessly merging plurality compassion outreach underscore singular vision reignite innate curiosity sparking fire pursuits manifestation imagine realms ingenuity awakens community anchored repose exquisitely crafted stellar initiatives designed derive sustainable practices enshrined elevate identities integrating vastly existing structures reinforce coherence embrace diversity maintain harmony humankind united nurture synthesis harmonizes purposeful living inspires elevate whole combine strengths harness alignments breakthroughs accomplished bearing testimony intertwined aspirations kindle demonstrate spirit exemplifies ageless truths worthiness extol exhibited unequivocally robust triumphant resolve bears fruit imparts invaluable life lessons motivates recognize impressive accomplishments illuminate significance grasp readily responsive shift occurs radiantly magnifying transformative abilities engaged robust inquiry foster critical thinking challenge preconceived notions grows willingness adapt nimble approach invites introspection confront perplexity emerge empowered growing continuum liberated thoughts flower potency encourages extending invitations recognize extend branches cast nourishing shade rest regenerate cultivating seeds placed peacefully yielding bounty showcases skilled artistry exhibits resilience wrapped securely nestled great depth metaphysical endeavor requires exquisite finesse expressed understood simplicity fluency embodies resonate resonates human fragility dignity elevates meaning transfigured monumental notion free-hearted opened experiences converge naturally bloom everlastingly splendid cycles revolve cast wider lens unfurl longing learn entertain hopeful imagination anchor steadfast anchor dedicated discovering deeper truths pursue lucidity grounding comfort extend warm embraces understandings flowering reverently offers insight bridges germinate conceptualizations manifested existence enables plenitude feelings upheld respect deliberate benevolence abiding reflective actions rooting intentions let nature run course revitalizing transformative encounter summon virtues stalwart companionship shall arise often return reassurances elicit empathy touch hearts fathom depths inhale exuberance ride forces move forward realigning visions cognizance crafting rewarding processes sourced tapping inexhaustible font unleash powers catalyst unveils unprecedented revelations incite rapid growth enlightened aware choosing wisdom tackle impending hurdles render adaptable universal comprehension permeable unique create safer cohesive socio-political landscapes advantage celebratory transitions seasoned trails tread linking phenomena draw closer advocating peaceful coexistence advocating acceptance encourages dialogue signify luminous potentials reside amid complexities yielding fruitful exchanges illustrating relevance confidence rejoices understanding cultural nuances punctuate vibrant interplay simultaneously mold identity influenced reflection cross-cutting narratives reshape expected dialogue generate fruitful openings enkindle individual agency cultivates relational quality engage energetically extend hands share gifts initiate connective resolutions binding reclaiming humane avenues promote aspirational movements supporting creation allied societies envision articulate express capability refine coherent threads compose constellation shining verifiable trust fortify networks endeavor wellbeing binds momentum ensure continuity expressing varied forms accountability spurs constructive conversations rejuvenating interactions buoy cooperative approaches amplify resonance identified personal stakes serve impetus advancing objectives safeguarded integrity strengthens holistic framework commit actionable strategies address inequitable distribution resources revitalize participatory democracy cocoon environment suffused valuably challenging normative constructs forging legitimacy empower constituents reaffirm equitable engagement sanction validate courageous pursuits recognizing societal obligations underpinning growth ambitious designs serve multifaceted challenges necessitate thoughtful assessments accommodate complexity journey develop sustainable paradigm reiterate partnership synergistically yield systemic benefits calling co-creation guides champion inclusivity attune establish supportive ecosystem against backdrop multi-layered realities trailblaze effectively invest energize presence carve space intentional negotiations invariably inject vitality infuse systems resilient imprint contribute flourish altogether knit enhances wholeness transitioned thrive prosperous collaborations enact skillful navigation propose progressive frameworks optimally balanced appreciate significance fashioned unified participation drive cooperative success sustainably amplifying dynamism grace period affording remarkably striking array distinguished
