LEITCHFIELD, Kentucky — The family of a Louisville woman detained by federal immigration agents says a Kentucky jail has failed to provide consistent treatment for her sickle cell anemia, potentially placing her health at serious risk.
Sarafinah Bukirwa, 31, was arrested July 22 at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport while traveling to a sickle cell conference. Her brother, Isaac Kabunga, said agents told him she had overstayed her visa. Bukirwa came from Uganda, founded a nonprofit supporting people with sickle cell disease and has a pending asylum application.
Kabunga said his sister had been released from a hospital one day before her arrest following a medical crisis. During a Sunday visit, Bukirwa reportedly told him it was the first day she had received all her prescribed medications. He alleged that some medicine had previously been withheld or diluted in water.
Rep. Morgan McGarvey said Bukirwa has no criminal record and was following the legal asylum process. Her attorney is preparing a habeas corpus petition challenging her detention, while McGarvey’s office has contacted ICE.
Grayson County Jailer Jason Woosley disputed the family’s account, saying Bukirwa is receiving every prescribed medication. He cited federal privacy rules in declining to provide additional details.
County records confirm Bukirwa remains detained. The jail currently holds numerous people for ICE, including many classified as noncriminal detainees.
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