Former Indianapolis Colts linebacker and Kenyan national Daniel Adongo has been deported from the United States after overstaying his visa and accumulating a criminal record, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
ICE said Adongo was removed from the United States on June 20 after an immigration judge with the U.S. Department of Justice ordered his deportation in March.
According to the agency, Adongo remained in the country after his visa expired in 2016. Authorities said he was subject to mandatory detention under the Laken Riley Act, which requires the detention of certain non-U.S. citizens accused or convicted of specified offences.
ICE said Adongo was arrested several times over the past decade. His criminal record reportedly includes arrests for felony intimidation, battery and disorderly conduct. In 2020, he was convicted of criminal mischief causing property damage and was sentenced to one year in jail.
Commenting on the deportation, ICE Chicago Assistant Field Office Director Douglas Thompson said:
“This dangerous individual was clearly a threat to the community, which is now safer since he’s been removed. Those who violate immigration law are held equally accountable, including former professional athletes.”
Adongo’s journey to the NFL was unconventional. The Kenyan athlete was initially recruited to the United States to play rugby before successfully transitioning to American football. He signed with the Indianapolis Colts and was part of the team between 2013 and 2015.
ICE announced the deportation this week, confirming that Adongo had been removed from the United States following the immigration court’s order.
Source: TMZ
