Immigration Detention at Key West Naval Base Involving Coast Guardsman’s Spouse

In a recent incident at the U.S. Naval Air Station in Key West, Florida, federal immigration authorities apprehended the spouse of an active-duty Coast Guardsman after a routine security check flagged her name. The arrest took place earlier this week as the couple prepared to move into their military housing.

Details of the Arrest

According to official statements, the spouse, whose work visa had expired in 2017, was subject to a lawful removal order issued years later. The couple had married just months prior to the incident, in early 2023. When they arrived at the base’s visitor control center to obtain access, her name was identified as problematic during the security screening process.

Collaboration with Federal Authorities

Base personnel notified the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), which subsequently examined the situation. Following approval from the base commander, NCIS alongside Coast Guard security and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) proceeded to the couple’s residence, leading to the detainment of the woman.

Current Status and Background

As of now, it is believed that she remains detained by HSI. Specific details regarding her nationality have not been released by the authorities. The husband is assigned to the USCGC Mohawk, a vessel stationed in Key West that has recently returned from a mission focused on drug interdiction in the Eastern Pacific.

Official Statements

Lt. Cmdr. Steve Roth, a spokesperson for the Coast Guard, confirmed the arrest, noting the organization’s commitment to cooperating with federal laws, including those pertaining to immigration. He emphasized that the Coast Guard works closely with HSI to uphold these regulations.

The incident underscores recent trends in immigration enforcement, which have become a priority for federal law enforcement under previous administrations. However, it has been indicated that this particular arrest was not part of a larger enforcement operation.

Conclusion

As both the Coast Guard and HSI continue to handle the matter, the focus remains on ensuring the integrity of security measures at military installations. The Navy has also affirmed their full cooperation with federal authorities, emphasizing the importance of security for access to naval properties.