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United Airlines Apologizes After Falsely Accusing Multiracial Family of Trafficking

The case highlights critics’ calls for clearer verification of guardianship to prevent racial bias in anti-trafficking checks.

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United Airlines planes at Denver International Airport in Denver on Wednesday, July 2, 2025. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
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Overview

  • On July 2, a United flight attendant flagged guardian Jim Niven and his two Colombian wards for suspected trafficking upon landing in Denver.
  • Denver police and U.S. Customs and Border Protection reviewed Niven’s valid guardianship papers and found no evidence of a crime.
  • United Airlines extended an apology to the family after authorities determined the accusations were unfounded.
  • Niven has requested a public acknowledgment of the mishandling and a full refund for the family’s travel.
  • The incident has revived concerns about recurring racial profiling of multiracial families at Denver International Airport.