Two Argentine acrobats detained by U.S. immigration authorities in Arizona

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents arrested two Argentine acrobats at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on November 7, 2026. Agustín Baccega, 42, and Gustavo Romanello, 34, were detained while traveling to attend a funeral for a friend. Both men have resided and worked in the United States since 2020.

Immigration enforcement details

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement stated that the two individuals entered the United States with valid documentation but subsequently exceeded their authorized period of stay. While the individuals were reportedly in the process of applying for residency at the time of their arrest, the legal status of their stay remains a point of contention between authorities and the defense.

Agustín Baccega is currently being held at the Eloy Federal Contract Facility in Arizona. He is currently awaiting a hearing date for his case. Gustavo Romanello is being held at the Florence Service Processing Center in Arizona. Romanello has a scheduled immigration court hearing regarding his status.

Regarding their employment, Infobae reported that Gustavo Romanello works directly for Universal Orlando. Agustín Baccega works for an external company and also serves as a financial specialist.

Legal and procedural disputes

The defense has challenged the legality of the arrests, arguing that the government violated established procedures. Attorney Samuel Sketers stated, "The government failed to conduct a required interview before transferring the cases to immigration court, which constitutes a major violation."

The detainees and their legal representation maintain they were in the country legally with valid work permits while they were awaiting residency resolutions. This position contrasts with the claims made by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement regarding the expiration of their authorized stay.

Friends of the detainees expressed concern regarding the impact of the arrests. Jonathan Batchelor, a friend of the two men, stated that the arrest is removing good people who have been following the rules. Clarín reported that the arrest occurred while Jonathan Batchelor was on a phone call with the couple.

Family reactions to detentions

The families of the detainees have expressed significant emotional distress regarding the current situation in Arizona. Mónica, the mother of Agustín Baccega, expressed distress and anguish regarding the situation of the detainees.

Liliana, the mother of Gustavo Romanello, expressed anxiety and uncertainty regarding how to help the detainees. The families face ongoing uncertainty as the legal proceedings move toward the scheduled immigration court hearings in the United States.

Glossary

• U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement — An agency described as an Argentine equivalent to the National Immigration Agency. It is involved in immigration enforcement.
• immigration court — A legal venue where individuals have hearings regarding their status. It is the location where legal proceedings move for detainees.
• residency — A legal status that individuals may apply for. It can be obtained through specific processes or permits.
• work permits — Documents that allow individuals to work. They are used to establish legal status while awaiting residency resolutions.