Irish Man Detained by ICE for Five Months Describes 'Concentration Camp' Conditions
An Irish national, Seamus Culleton, has been held by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for five months, with his ordeal described as akin to a modern-day concentration camp. Culleton, who has resided in the United States for nearly two decades and is married to an American citizen, expressed his desperation, stating, "I don't know how much more I can take" and labelling the experience as "torture".
Arrest and Detention Details
In September 2025, Culleton was apprehended by ICE agents while driving home from work in Massachusetts. Despite informing officers that he was married to a US citizen, held a work permit, and was awaiting his green card, he was taken into custody. His detention began in a holding cell in Massachusetts, followed by transfers to New York and ultimately to a facility in El Paso, Texas.
Harsh Conditions in El Paso Detention Centre
Culleton has provided a harrowing account of the El Paso detention centre, characterising it as horrible and filthy with inadequate sanitation and limited food supplies. He reported being housed in a tent measuring 16ft by 35ft with no ceiling, accommodating 72 individuals in cramped conditions with bunk beds and a central table. Illnesses are widespread among detainees, and access to fresh air, sunlight, or outdoor time is severely restricted.
- Overcrowded living spaces with 72 people in a single tent
- Poor sanitation and rampant illnesses
- Limited food leading to significant weight loss
- Fear of security personnel described as "capable of anything"
Family's Anguish and Calls for Intervention
Culleton's wife has described the shock of his detention and the difficulties in maintaining contact, noting she went almost a week without hearing from him after his arrest. She emphasised his character, saying, "He's a good man. I don't think anyone deserves this, but Seamus definitely doesn't deserve this." His sister, Caroline, added that he has suffered physical deterioration, including sores, infections, and hair loss.
The family is urging Irish Taoiseach Micheal Martin to raise Culleton's case with US President Donald Trump during a scheduled meeting at the White House in March. Culleton has refused to sign deportation papers, asserting his rights and hope for release.
Official Response and Consular Assistance
The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has confirmed awareness of the case, with Consul General in Austin, Texas, and the embassy in Washington DC providing consular assistance and engaging with the US Department of Homeland Security at a senior level. This diplomatic effort aims to address the humanitarian concerns and secure Culleton's welfare.
This case highlights ongoing issues within US immigration detention systems, sparking debates over human rights and the treatment of long-term residents. Culleton's plight underscores the urgent need for transparency and reform in immigration enforcement practices.
