Vermont Superintendent Confronts Texas Port Interrogation

A Disturbing Encounter at the Border

Wilmer Chavarria, the superintendent of the Winooski School District in Vermont, has come forward to share a harrowing experience he faced after returning from a trip to Nicaragua. His story highlights the intense and unsettling treatment he endured during an interrogation at the Houston Port of Entry at George Bush Airport.

Chavarria described the incident as "abusive" and "bizarre," emphasizing the emotional toll it took on him. He recounted how he and his husband, Cyrus Dundgeon, were separated upon arrival, with Chavarria being taken to a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) holding room without any explanation. The experience left him feeling like he had been "abducted by a gang of aggressive, violent people."

The Interrogation Process

During the interrogation, Chavarria was subjected to intense questioning by multiple agents. He claimed that he was told he had no rights and that his constitutional protections did not apply at the port of entry. This assertion left him feeling dehumanized and disoriented.

"I asked whether I was being detained, and she said 'You’re not being detained,'” Chavarria recalled. “I said, 'Then can I go?' And she said, 'No, you may not go.'"

Throughout the ordeal, Chavarria was repeatedly denied the opportunity to make a phone call or access his personal devices. He expressed frustration at the lack of transparency and the aggressive behavior of the agents involved.

Threats and Manipulation

The interrogation took a more threatening turn when agents attempted to pressure Chavarria into providing access to his professional devices, which contained sensitive information about students in the Winooski District. He claims that he was threatened with referral to the FBI and warned that his record could be stained, potentially affecting his future employment opportunities.

Despite the pressure, Chavarria refused to comply and ultimately remained silent about the student data. After five hours of intense questioning, he was finally released. However, the experience left him deeply shaken.

A Lingering Sense of Insecurity

Upon reuniting with his husband, Dundgeon, Chavarria felt a profound sense of unease. He expressed feelings of insecurity and a growing belief that he is not fully accepted as a U.S. citizen. “I just don’t feel safe here,” he said. “I feel like I’m being told over and over that this is not my country.”

Dundgeon added that their experience is not unique. He pointed out that many others face similar situations, often without any public attention or support. “Who’s behind those doors right now being treated the exact same way?” he asked.

The Response from CBP

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) responded to the incident with a statement emphasizing that all travelers are subject to inspection for national security reasons. The agency highlighted its commitment to treating all individuals with integrity, respect, and professionalism.

CBP also outlined its policies regarding the inspection of electronic devices, stating that searches are rare and that travelers are obligated to present their devices for examination. The agency noted that passwords or encryption methods provided during inspections are not retained once the search is complete.

Ongoing Concerns and Calls for Transparency

Despite the agency's response, Chavarria remains concerned about the lack of clarity surrounding his interrogation. He mentioned that his Global Entry status has been revoked, and he is currently working with Vermont’s federal delegation to seek answers.

However, he also expressed fear of retaliation if he continues to push for more information. “I don't want to poke the bear; I do not trust the people in charge right now,” he said. “I don't want to make them any angrier at me, because I fear for the safety of my family.”

Chavarria’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the need for transparency and accountability in border security practices. It also underscores the emotional and psychological impact such experiences can have on individuals who are simply trying to return home.