by New Smyrna, FL — A shocking incident in New Smyrna, Florida, has drawn attention from both local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. Nina Kristina Jaaskelainen, 54, a Finnish national who has been living in the U.S. illegally since 1999, is facing battery and domestic violence charges after allegedly throwing coffee on a mother, her 11-month-old son, and their dog during a neighborhood confrontation earlier this month.
The Incident
According to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, the altercation occurred when the family and their Dalmatian dog, which was walking off-leash, passed by Jaaskelainen’s property. Authorities said she first threw coffee at the dog, which escalated into a heated argument, and then allegedly tossed another cup of coffee at the mother and her infant.
The victim, Kelly Brisell, told WESH 2 News: “It was all over my clothes, and all over him. It was over his eyes, nose, and temple. Thank God the coffee wasn’t hot.”
Officers arriving at the scene observed dried coffee on the mother, child, and dog. Jaaskelainen admitted to throwing coffee on the dog but denied intentionally targeting the mother and infant. She claimed that the unleashed dog had disturbed her own pet and asserted that the family and their dog were on her property.
Illegal Immigration Status
Jaaskelainen first entered the U.S. on a tourist visa in April 1999, which required her to leave by July 1999. Instead, she remained in the country illegally for more than 26 years, a violation of federal immigration law. Following her arrest, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) placed an immigration detainer to ensure she remains in custody and is not released into the community while deportation proceedings advance.
Government and ICE Response
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin called the incident “appalling,” noting that Jaaskelainen’s decades-long illegal status made the situation particularly concerning. She said:
“For over TWO DECADES, Jaaskelainen has been in our country illegally, skirting the law without consequence. Now, a baby, a mother, and a dog have been assaulted. ICE lodged an arrest detainer to ensure she can never victimize another American family.”
McLaughlin emphasized that the action aligns with the federal government’s commitment to protecting citizens from criminal activity by individuals in the country illegally.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Jaaskelainen faces formal charges for battery and domestic violence. Authorities confirm that the ICE detainer ensures she will remain in custody during deportation proceedings. Local and federal officials stressed that assaults involving infants and pets are taken particularly seriously, and that this case highlights the importance of enforcing laws to protect public safety.
Community Reaction
Neighbors expressed shock at the violent nature of the incident. Many noted the unusual circumstances of a long-term illegal resident engaging in an aggressive act, while others expressed relief that no serious injuries occurred. Authorities encouraged residents to report similar confrontations promptly and praised first responders for quick action at the scene.
Do you believe stricter consequences should be applied to illegal residents who commit violent crimes? Share your opinions and experiences in the comments below!
