Trump Ally Faces Allegations of ICE Interference in Custody Dispute
Paolo Zampolli, a former modeling agent and special White House envoy, is at the center of a controversy after reportedly requesting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to detain his ex-girlfriend during a heated custody battle. According to an investigation by The New York Times, this incident highlights potential abuses of power within immigration enforcement.
Details of the Custody and Immigration Case
In June 2025, Zampolli learned that his Brazilian ex-girlfriend, Amanda Ungaro, was incarcerated in a Miami jail on fraud charges. Both parties were engaged in a legal dispute over the custody of their teenage son. Ungaro's immigration status was precarious, as her last temporary visa had expired in 2019, leaving her without lawful status at the time of her arrest.
Records obtained by the NYT reveal that Zampolli contacted David Venturella, a senior ICE official, to inquire about placing Ungaro in immigration custody. Venturella subsequently directed ICE's Miami field office to apprehend her before she could post bail, emphasizing the case's importance to "someone close to the White House." This intervention led to Ungaro's transfer into ICE custody and eventual deportation to Brazil.
Responses and Denials from Involved Parties
Zampolli has denied seeking any special favors, stating he merely sought clarification on procedures from Venturella. The Department of Homeland Security issued a statement asserting that Ungaro's detention and deportation were solely due to her expired visa and fraud charges, dismissing any political motivations as "FALSE." Additionally, a spokesperson for Melania Trump confirmed she had no involvement or knowledge of the matter.
Background and Broader Implications
Zampolli, credited with introducing Donald Trump to Melania Knauss in 1998, has maintained close ties with the Trump family for decades. His name also surfaces in Department of Justice documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein case, though he claims a distant relationship with the convicted sex offender.
Sources familiar with the case suggest Ungaro might have faced deportation regardless of Zampolli's actions, given her immigration status. However, the timing and circumstances raise questions about ICE's discretion in detention decisions, particularly when children are involved. Ungaro later petitioned an immigration judge to return to Brazil, fearing custody loss if she remained in U.S. detention, and the judge approved her request.
This incident underscores ongoing debates about immigration enforcement and potential political influence, with critics calling for greater transparency and accountability in such cases.
