Federal immigration agents detained Deng Deng, a Southern Connecticut State University basketball player who entered the United States legally but overstayed his visa, at Tweed New Haven Airport on September 4. The Department of Homeland Security confirmed the arrest, noting that Deng will appear before an immigration judge and receive due process.
Local response and legal action
SCSU spokesperson Jason Edwards said the university is in contact with the student and supporting his family. The student’s attorneys filed a writ of habeas corpus, and U.S. Judge Vernon Oliver issued an order limiting Deng’s transfer to detention facilities more than 150 miles from the Connecticut border. The case was moved from the District of Connecticut to the District of Massachusetts.
Airport’s legal obligations
Avports, the airport operator, explained that federal law requires public‑use airports to authorize unescorted access for qualified government employees, including law‑enforcement officers, after a background check. The agency cited the relevant regulation, emphasizing that the airport’s security program must accommodate such access.
Community and advocacy criticism
Kica Matos, president of the National Immigration Law Center, called the incident “repulsive” and warned that ICE’s unrestricted access to the airport creates fear in the community. New Haven Immigrants Coalition leader Anne Watkins echoed these concerns, noting that ICE agents have been seen parking in staff lots and using airport badges.
Local activist John Lugo warned that every public place is becoming a hunting ground for ICE, urging residents to stay vigilant. Mayor Justin Elicker described the arrest as “just awful,” and said the city is reviewing New Haven Police body‑camera footage to ensure officers interacted appropriately with legal observers. He stressed that the police do not coordinate with ICE and that an officer is always present at the airport for public safety.
Broader context
Deng’s detention occurs amid a recent surge in ICE arrests at Connecticut airports and across the country. Earlier this year, ICE also detained a SCSU nursing student off‑campus, prompting a campus rally and fundraising effort for her bond.
The incident highlights the tension between federal immigration enforcement and local communities that value constitutional protections and the safety of all residents, regardless of immigration status.
Original reporting: The Connecticut Mirror — read the source article.
