Kentucky Woman’s Detention Highlights Immigration Challenges

A woman from Kentucky, originally from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is facing the complexities of U.S. immigration laws. Armelle Bondonga, who entered the U.S. in 2013 on a visa, was detained during an immigration interview. Her husband, an American citizen, and their 18-month-old child were present, according to her attorney, Arianit Osmani.

Bondonga was trying to address her immigration status through a marriage-based application. Despite her cooperation, she was taken into ICE custody. Osmani noted that she had not attempted to avoid authorities. “Quite the opposite: she voluntarily appeared before the government for an immigration interview,” he stated. Her detention raises concerns due to her U.S.-citizen husband and child, and a pending marriage-based petition.

Her detention has caused significant strain on her family. Her husband now handles their shared responsibilities while caring for their child. Attorney Osmani highlights the situation’s emotional toll, stating it places a substantial burden on the family.

Officially, Bondonga entered the U.S. legally in September 2013, but her visa expired in March 2014, leading to her unlawful presence. ICE officials explained she received a deportation order in November 2025. They encourage illegal immigrants to self-deport using an offer of financial assistance and a flight. The ICE spokesperson mentioned, “Being in detention is a choice.”

State Representative Nima Kulkarni, who practices immigration law, met Bondonga in detention and criticized ICE’s treatment. Kulkarni described the conditions Bondonga faced as harsh and dehumanizing. Bondonga, however, remained focused on others, supporting fellow detainees. Kulkarni commended her commitment to community and highlighted her efforts to legally resolve her status.

Kulkarni argues that current U.S. immigration policies often lead to families being unnecessarily detained, urging reforms to the system. “We have a duty to hold our elected officials accountable,” she stated.

Bondonga, before settling in Kentucky, lived in various states and pursued her education in Louisville. She actively participated in community initiatives, such as Future Ancestors, following social events like Breonna Taylor’s death. Her former teacher described the community’s support for Bondonga and his distress over her detention.

Bondonga fled the Congo to escape violence and poverty. She expressed commitment to using her voice in America, something she felt was limited in her home country. Her husband has filed a petition for her as an alien relative, seeking government acknowledgment of their marriage. The family’s separation continues as Bondonga remains in detention, complicating their lives.