Jamaican Flight Attendant Detained by ICE in Nashville Over Alleged Visa Overstay

A flight attendant was picked up by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement on the accusation of overstaying his visa. Jamaican man Lorenzo Thompson, a Southwest Airlines flight attendant, was detained by ICE in Nashville, Tennessee, on July 14 and the administration said his visa, on which he came in 2021, was only for six months and he never departed. "Thompson was cooperative with ICE officers and taken into custody without incident. Cooperation of this nature helps ensure the process is conducted safely and efficiently for all involved. He will remain in ICE custody pending immigration proceedings," the statement said.

Thompson's best friend Kristin Foster started a fundraiser for him and said Thompson has a pending asylum case in the US as he escaped life-threatening abuse in Jamaica. "Since arriving, he has worked tirelessly to build a stable life, following every legal step toward citizenship. He has no criminal record. No parking tickets. He holds a valid work visa, has a pending asylum case, and is a dedicated Flight Attendant for a beloved airline. Despite his documented status and commitment to doing things the right way, Lorenzo was unexpectedly detained by ICE on July 14th after returning back to base from a work trip. This has put his career, stability, and future in jeopardy," the fundraiser said. "The mounting legal expenses are overwhelming. Funds raised will go directly toward attorney fees, filing fees, administrative fees, bond fees, transportation from the detention center, and other costs necessary to secure Lorenzo’s release and ensure he has the best legal representation possible. Lorenzo has always been the first to help others, never asking for anything in return. Now, in his time of need, Kristin and those who care about him are asking for support to help him fight for his freedom and the life he’s worked so hard to build," it said.