An Irish citizen’s extended detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has drawn significant attention to immigration enforcement practices and consular protection efforts. Seamus Culleton, who entered the United States in 2009 through the visa waiver program, was apprehended by immigration authorities in September 2025 while finalizing his green card application process.
Culleton’s spouse, Tiffany Smith, emotionally recounted the profound distress caused by her husband’s detention during a recent press conference. “The experience has been completely overwhelming,” Smith stated, emphasizing her desire to have her husband “home where he belongs.” She reported concerning deterioration in Culleton’s health during her visit two weeks prior, describing significant weight loss and apparent jaundice.
The detained individual, originally from County Kilkenny’s Glenmore area, has established substantial ties to the United States over his 18-year residence. Culleton operates a plastering business in the Boston region and is married to an American citizen. His legal representative, Ogor Winnie Okoye, has formally requested immediate release to enable completion of the green card application process.
From the El Paso detention facility, Culleton provided disturbing accounts of living conditions, characterizing them as squalid and inadequate. He described confinement with 71 other detainees in cramped quarters, insufficient nutrition, and severely limited access to outdoor recreation. “The uncertainty is terrifying—you never know what each day might bring,” Culleton conveyed during an interview with RTÉ’s Liveline.
The case has escalated to diplomatic levels, with Taoiseach Micheál Martin acknowledging multiple instances of Irish citizens in ICE custody. The Irish government has adopted a cautious approach, with Martin emphasizing the necessity of effective assistance that doesn’t inadvertently worsen the situation. Foreign Affairs Minister Helen McEntee confirmed consular assistance through the Austin Consulate General and diplomatic engagement with Homeland Security officials in Washington.
ICE officials presented a contrasting narrative through Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin, who characterized Culleton as an “illegal alien” who received full due process and was issued a removal order. McLaughlin asserted that Culleton elected to remain in custody despite being offered voluntary departure to Ireland. The administration’s stance maintains that detention represents a choice for individuals with pending applications, and highlighted a program offering financial incentives for self-deportation.
The case highlights ongoing tensions between immigration enforcement priorities and humanitarian considerations, with significant implications for bilateral relations and consular protection protocols.