Amid an ongoing partial government shutdown, President Donald Trump has deployed ICE agents to U.S. airports. This decision comes as a response to significant security delays and staffing shortages affecting spring break travelers nationwide. TSA employees have faced pay disruptions, receiving zero-dollar paychecks for over 37 days.

Administration figures, including Tom Homan and Sean Duffy, indicate ICE agents will support non-specialized tasks to cut passenger wait times and maintain security standards.

“These agents are helping manage routine tasks while TSA workers are without pay,” said Duffy.

An incident earlier this month drew attention when a Southwest Airlines flight attendant overstayed his visa and was arrested. Lorenzo Thompson, a Jamaican citizen, was detained in Nashville for remaining past his visa’s expiration. He first entered the U.S. on April 17, 2021, with a visa that expired on October 16, 2021.

An ICE spokesperson explained, “He violated visa terms by not leaving. He remains in ICE custody through his immigration proceedings.” The agency offers $2,600 and a no-cost flight for those illegally in the U.S. to self-deport. ICE encourages illegal residents to take this option to return legally.

TWU Local 556, representing Southwest Airlines flight attendants, confirmed Thompson’s arrest. They emphasized their commitment to supporting him and his family.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement noted Thompson was pursuing U.S. citizenship, holding a valid work visa, and pending asylum case. They described him as a hardworking, lawful citizen with no criminal record.

An online crowdfunding campaign was started to assist with Thompson’s legal expenses. It states he fled Jamaica to escape dangerous conditions and has been an upstanding member contributing positively while seeking citizenship.

Southwest Airlines has yet to provide a public statement regarding the incident.