Kentucky Woman Faces Detention Amid Immigration Process

A Kentucky woman originally from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Armelle Bondonga, faces detention by federal authorities during an immigration interview. Her attorney, Arianit Osmani, states that Bondonga attended the interview with her American husband and their 18-month-old child, attempting to resolve her immigration status lawfully. Despite appearing voluntarily, she was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Bondonga, a Louisville resident, entered the U.S. in 2013 on a visa that expired in 2014. Osmani emphasizes that Bondonga has consistently cooperated with authorities throughout the process. She and her husband were pursuing legal avenues to secure her status, but after the interview, she was taken into custody. ICE stated that she overstayed her visa and accumulated several years of unlawful presence in the U.S.

She faced a removal order in November 2025. ICE officials suggest that remaining in detention is a choice and encourage self-deportation with incentives. However, Osmani and others argue that the detention presents significant emotional and practical challenges for Bondonga’s family.

Kentucky State Representative Nima Kulkarni, who also acts as Bondonga’s attorney, criticizes ICE’s treatment. Despite Bondonga’s attempts to follow legal procedures, she endures difficult conditions in custody. Kulkarni asserts that such practices politicize and dehumanize individuals seeking the American dream.

Bondonga’s narrative highlights her contributions and community involvement in the U.S. She has a degree in business management from Jefferson Community and Technical College and was active in social justice through student groups like Future Ancestors.

Calls for reform focus on the urgent need to address flaws in the immigration system and ensure fair treatment of immigrants pursuing legal pathways. As Bondonga’s husband files a petition for her, the family faces ongoing separation and stress.