U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement recently arrested a Southwest Airlines flight attendant for remaining in the U.S. for several years after his visa had expired.

Lorenzo Thompson, a Jamaican citizen employed as a Southwest Airlines flight attendant, was taken into ICE custody July 14 after returning from a work trip to Nashville International Airport, according to federal officials.

Authorities say Thompson entered the United States legally in April 2021 but remained in the country long after his visa expired in October that year.

The Department of Homeland Security told multiple news outlets that Thompson "never departed and remained in the U.S. illegally" in violation of the terms of his lawful admission.

"Against our nation's laws, he overstayed his visa and failed to depart," an ICE spokesperson said, according to the New York Post.

"He will remain in ICE custody pending his immigration proceedings," added the spokesperson.

ICE also highlighted the Trump administration's self-deportation initiative, which offers illegal immigrants a free flight and up to $2,600 to voluntarily leave the country.

"We encourage every person here illegally to take advantage of this offer and reserve the chance to come back to the U.S. the right legal way to live the American dream," the agency said. "If not, you will be arrested and deported without a chance to return."

Federal officials said Thompson cooperated with ICE officers and was taken into custody without incident.

Online jail records indicate he is being held at a correctional facility in Mississippi while his immigration case proceeds.

The arrest has prompted support from Thompson's union and labor advocacy groups.

TWU Local 556, the Dallas-based union representing more than 21,000 Southwest flight attendants, said it is providing legal assistance and working with Thompson's family and attorney.

"Every member deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and we are committed to ensuring this member and their family know they are not alone during this difficult time," the union said, FOX 4 reported.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement also has backed Thompson, saying he has no criminal record and was pursuing legal avenues to remain in the United States.

Supporters contend he has a pending asylum case and had received authorization to work while his immigration case was being processed.

Edward Marq, a Southwest flight attendant and union leader, said the organization is seeking "transparency and due process" as Thompson's case moves through immigration court.

Friends and coworkers have also launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover Thompson's legal expenses.

The fundraising page says he came to the United States seeking refuge from abuse in Jamaica and has worked to build a stable life while following the legal process.

Southwest Airlines has not publicly commented on Thompson's arrest.