"Jim Fisher" wrote:

I would be most confident that most of this "story" is made up of complete
lies and hyperbole. If there is any truth at all to the story, I believe
the goofy author obvious did something silly like not registering with the
I-visa program or packing a leatherman in the carry-on or perhaps just
making made a complete ass of herself at the gate.

The article says she did not have the I-visa. I don't have any
knowledge of the treatment after she was denied entry, but the story
doesn't sound like it was made up to me.

I almost had the same thing happen to me flying into Heathrow. The
reason? I was only staying 4 weeks but had an open dated ticket. (The
reason for the ticket was that I was on airline staff travel.) That
was almost enough to get me straight back on the plane home again. I
had a hard time convincing the immigration guy that I was legitimate.
I am sure the USA or indeed Australia is no different to the UK.

The immigration people can allow or deny entry without any real
evidence, and there is no appeal. It is basically done on the
judgement or opinion of the immigration officer. As well as my
incident I have heard a number of similar ones where people were
denied entry for offences such as trying to enter as a tourist but
having work related items in their luggage. A good reason not to take
work with you if you go on holiday.

As for the handcuffs etc later, I guess having spent thousands on a
flight, and having being traveling for 20 something hours some
people's tempers may get a bit short if you tell them they are going
straight back home again.