Irish Man Detained by ICE Despite Valid Work Permit Pleads for Help

Seamus Culleton's case raises concerns about ICE's practices and treatment of detainees

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Seamus Culleton, an Irish man detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for five months despite having a valid work permit, is speaking out about the 'torture' he has endured in detention. His case is sparking outrage and prompting calls for intervention from Irish authorities.

Why it matters

Culleton's story underscores the precarious situation faced by many immigrants navigating the complex US legal system. His detention despite having a valid work permit raises questions about ICE's enforcement practices and the treatment of detainees in their facilities, which have been described as 'modern-day concentration camps' by advocacy groups.

The details

Culleton, originally from County Kilkenny, was arrested in September 2025 after a routine trip to a hardware store near his Boston-area home. He describes the conditions at the El Paso detention facility as 'torture,' both psychological and physical, with overcrowded, unsanitary conditions and limited access to food, fresh air, and exercise. Culleton entered the US in 2009 on a visa waiver program and overstayed the 90-day limit, but after marrying a US citizen and applying for lawful permanent residence, he obtained a statutory exemption allowing him to work. His detention has prevented him from attending a final green card interview scheduled for October.

  • Culleton was arrested in September 2025.
  • Culleton's final green card interview was scheduled for October.

The players

Seamus Culleton

An Irish man detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for five months despite having a valid work permit.

Tiffany Smyth

Culleton's wife, a US citizen.

Ogor Winnie Okoye

Culleton's lawyer, who called his detention 'inexplicable.'

Micheál Martin

The Taoiseach of Ireland, who has been urged to raise Culleton's case with President Donald Trump.

Donald Trump

The President of the United States, who Micheál Martin may address regarding Culleton's case.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.