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ICE Detention Horror: The Story of an Irish Plasterer in the United States

Irishman Seamus Culleton has been held by US immigration authorities for nearly five months — des...

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02.00 10 Feb 2026


ICE Detention Horror: The Story of an Irish Plasterer in the United States


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02.00 10 Feb 2026


Irishman Seamus Culleton has been held by US immigration authorities for nearly five months — despite a valid work permit, a US citizen wife, and no criminal record. From Boston to upstate New York to Texas, his family describes a nightmare of overcrowded cells, paperwork disputes, and relentless uncertainty.

Seamus says he never signed deportation papers; Immigration and Customs Enforcement – the notorious ICE – claims otherwise; a judge agrees. Seamus remains trapped between two parts of the same system — one processing his green card, the other trying to remove him. 

On today’s podcast, Ciara Doherty speaks to his sister, Caroline Culleton, about the emotional and physical toll this ordeal has taken on Seamus and the family. The story highlights broader concerns over rising deportations of Irish citizens in the US and the human impact behind the statistics. If you or someone you know has faced similar challenges, we’d like to hear from you. 

Email the Newstalk Daily team anytime at newstalkdaily@newstalk.com 


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