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Former NSW Officer Jailed, Deported Under Heightened US Border Scrutiny

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has warned that US entry rules are strict, with travellers subject to heightened screening followed by possible deportation.

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Overview

  • Nicolle Saroukos was detained in Honolulu despite holding a valid ESTA and tourist visa, strip-searched and subjected to a body cavity search before spending the night with convicted criminals and being deported.
  • US Customs and Border Protection officers are reportedly applying subjective criteria—such as clothing quantity, tattoos and phone apps—to deny entry under Trump-era immigration policies.
  • Travellers on the Visa Waiver Program have limited recourse at US ports of entry as CBP personnel retain broad authority to decide admissibility even with approved ESTAs.
  • Immigration lawyers advise Australians to carry printed itineraries, avoid one-way tickets and prepare for searches of electronic devices and social media accounts.
  • Australia’s Smartraveller website now warns that US border enforcement is strict and urges travellers to verify ESTA details to prevent unexpected detention or removal.