Scott Statement on Deportations of Cruise Ship Seafarers

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement on recent press reports of U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) deporting cruise ship seafarers at the Port of Norfolk and other ports in the United States:

“My office has been made aware of recent immigration enforcement actions by CBP at the Port of Norfolk and other ports in the United States against cruise ship seafarers from the Philippines and other nations even though they held valid C1/D visas. 

“Based on credible press reports, an earlier CBP action last year in Florida aboard a cruise ship was pursuant to a law enforcement investigation. However, that individual was arrested, charged, and convicted of a crime – and will not be deported until after serving his sentence. It is unclear based on press reports why these recently deported seafarers were targeted. Especially, whether for each individual detained, if there was probable cause that they had committed a crime.

“I am making inquiries with the appropriate federal authorities to gather more information. Our nation was founded on the fundamental principles of due process. Under our Constitution, everyone is entitled to due process regardless of citizenship or immigration status.”

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