Former Indianapolis Colts linebacker Daniel Adongo was deported to Kenya after months in ICE custody. The former NFL player overstayed his visa after his football career ended. ICE confirmed his removal from the United States on June 20. Adongo had faced several arrests and convictions over the past decade.
Daniel Adongo was deported after spending months in ICE custody, according to reports
ICE confirmed Adongo’s deportation in a news release issued Saturday, July 25. The agency said it had removed him from the United States on June 20. Adongo overstayed his visa after it expired in 2016. His NFL career with the Colts ended one year earlier.
The 36-year-old former linebacker was detained at Miami Correctional Facility before his deportation. Adongo had faced multiple arrests involving felony intimidation, battery, and disorderly conduct. He was convicted of criminal mischief causing damage in 2020. He received a 364-day jail sentence following that conviction.
Adongo’s most recent criminal charges reportedly fell under the Laken Riley Act. The federal law requires detention for certain undocumented immigrants facing criminal charges. His immigration case ultimately led to his removal from the United States. Adongo has now returned to his home country, Kenya.
The former rugby player joined the Colts in 2013 after switching sports. ESPN reported that he became the first Kenyan to play in the NFL. Adongo appeared in five games across two seasons with Indianapolis. The team released him in December 2015 following a police incident.
According to ESPN, police visited Adongo’s Indianapolis home after a woman sought help. The woman reportedly texted a friend, who then contacted authorities. Police arrived, but Adongo was not at the residence. The woman reportedly declined medical assistance and could not explain her earlier message.
Adongo’s family has claimed he struggled with mental health issues over the years. They believe the difficulties began during his career as a professional rugby player. He played rugby in South Africa and New Zealand before pursuing American football. His NFL career lasted only two seasons with Indianapolis.
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