Southwest Airlines flight attendant detained by ICE
ICE detained Southwest Airlines flight attendant Lorenzo Thompson as he was returning from a work flight.
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A Southwest flight attendant is in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody, the federal agency confirmed on July 24.
Lorenzo Thompson, a Jamaican citizen, was arrested 10 days earlier at Nashville International Airport in Middle Tennessee, an ICE spokesperson told USA TODAY.
According to the agency, Thompson entered the United States lawfully on April 17, 2021, at the Miami Port of Entry, with permission to stay for six months.
“Thompson never departed and remained in the U.S. illegally for five years in violation of the terms of his lawful admission,” ICE wrote in an emailed statement to USA TODAY.
ICE said that Thompson was cooperative with officers, taken into custody without incident, and would remain in ICE custody pending immigration proceedings.
“Being in detention is a choice,” ICE wrote. “The United States is offering illegal aliens $2,600 and a free flight to self-deport now. We encourage every person here illegally to take advantage of this offer and reserve the chance to come back to the U.S. the right legal way to live the American dream.”
USA TODAY has reached out to Southwest for more information.
Southwest union responds to flight attendant’s ICE detention
In a statement on social media, the union that represents Southwest Airlines flight attendants also confirmed the arrest.
“TWU Local 556 has been in communication with the Member’s family. We are also working with the attorney retained by the Member, as well as TWU Local 556’s legal counsel, to understand the circumstances and provide appropriate support.”
The union wrote that it will continue to monitor the situation closely.
“We appreciate our Members’ concern and support, as we all hope for a swift resolution to this situation.”
Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @nataliealund.
