Irish Immigrant Seamus Culleton Detained by ICE Amid Legal Battle for Residency

Seamus Culleton, an Irish immigrant who has lived in the United States for over 20 years, has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) since September 9, 2025. Culleton, originally from Glenmore, County Kilkenny, is married to a U.S. citizen and operates a plastering business in the Boston area. Despite holding a valid work permit and being in the process of applying for a green card, he was arrested while driving home from work and has since been held in an ICE facility in El Paso, Texas.

The Irish Times

Culleton described the conditions in the detention facility as dire, likening them to “absolute hell.” He reported being confined in a large room with over 70 men, facing inadequate food portions and unsanitary conditions. He has had limited access to outdoor exercise and has experienced significant psychological distress during his nearly five-month detention.

The Irish Times

At a bond hearing in November, a judge initially approved Culleton's release on a $4,000 bond, which his wife Tiffany Smyth paid. However, the U.S. government later denied the bond without explanation, a decision that Culleton's attorney, Ogor Winnie Okoye, described as unusual given the current legal landscape where many detainees are being released on bond. Culleton's case has been complicated by conflicting claims from ICE agents, who alleged that he signed documents agreeing to deportation, which he vehemently denies.

The Irish Times

Culleton's attorney criticized the handling of his case, stating that it is atypical for someone in his position—married to a U.S. citizen and actively pursuing residency—to be detained. Okoye noted that prior to the current administration, individuals like Culleton would likely not face such detention. She characterized the government's actions as “inept” and “capricious,” highlighting the discretionary power that ICE has to release individuals like Culleton.

The Irish Times

The emotional toll on Culleton's family has been profound. His wife, Tiffany, expressed her heartbreak and ongoing anxiety over his situation, while his sister, Caroline, voiced concerns about his physical and emotional well-being in detention. The family continues to hope for a resolution to what they describe as a tormenting ordeal.

The Irish Times

The Department of Foreign Affairs in Ireland has acknowledged Culleton's case and is providing consular assistance, although they have refrained from commenting on specific details. ICE has been contacted for further comment regarding the circumstances of Culleton's detention.

The Irish Times

Seamus Culleton's case underscores the complexities and challenges faced by immigrants navigating the U.S. immigration system. As he remains in detention, the legal and emotional battles continue, raising questions about the treatment of immigrants and the policies governing their detention.

The Irish Times