ICE detains Southwest flight attendant in Nashville

A Southwest Airlines flight attendant was taken into federal custody earlier this month after immigration authorities say he overstayed his visa, an arrest that has drawn support from his union and sparked a broader debate over workplace enforcement. Lorenzo "Enzo" Thompson, a citizen of Jamaica, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers at Nashville International Airport on July 14 after returning from a work trip, according to agency statements.

ICE officials stated that Thompson entered the United States lawfully at the Miami Port of Entry on April 17, 2021, with a visa authorizing a six-month stay that expired on October 16, 2021. The agency said he never departed and remained in the country unlawfully for nearly five years. In a statement, ICE said Thompson was cooperative during the arrest and was taken into custody without incident. He remains in ICE custody at a correctional center in Mississippi pending immigration proceedings.

Thompson's union, TWU Local 556, which represents Southwest Airlines flight attendants, confirmed the detention and said it is supporting the member and his family. The Dallas-based union stated it has been in contact with...