’90 Day Fiancé’ Star Jay Smith Is ‘Hanging in There’ as He Remains in ICE Custody

As In Touch previously confirmed, Jay turned himself in to the Upper Allen Police Department in Pennsylvania on July 3 on an alleged violation of a PFA order placed against him by his estranged wife, Ashley Smith (née Martson).

Since he is not an American citizen, Jay was immediately taken into ICE custody after his arrest and is facing the possibility of being deported. He is still being detained at the York County Prison.

But the Jamaica native’s friend, Kayla O’Brien, has been very supportive and has been helping him out ever since his arrest.

Kayla is the friend who started Jay’s GoFundMe page in order to raise money from fans and followers to help free Jay from “immigration detention.”

In an exclusive statement to In Touch, Kayla was able to share an update about how Jay has been coping amid his current detention on his behalf.

“He said it is hard in lockup because he’s never done anything like this before,” Kayla relayed.

“[He said] sometimes you feel you are going crazy, but he has been able to stay so positive due to the amazing support of his family and friends,” the statement continued.

“He is so thankful and appreciative and you can always hear it in his voice, he knows how hard we are working for him,” she continued.

“It’s been a wild, emotional ride, but he is most definitely hanging in there,” Kayla said.

“He is so admirable how he has stayed so strong, so calm, so collected and so positive. I am proud of him,” she explained and added that she has been able to visit him since he was placed into custody.

Kayla confirmed that Jay’s hearing was rescheduled until July 17, and she said, “He will be represented at the PFA hearing by an attorney.”

As for now, Kayla has been sharing regular updates with Jay’s fans via his Instagram page.

“So I went to the jail today and saw Jay … he asked me to reach out on here and let everyone know that his GofundMe is not a scam and he is in real need of help. He is doing everything he can to keep his spirits lifted, he’s been reading a lot of books and making phone calls when he can, but he is truly sad and starting to feel depression and anxiety. His smile and the glow in his eyes never fades though, he still lights right up. I keep telling him to stay strong and reminding him how many people care and are working to help him, and how many people are actually realizing how wrong this whole situation is now. Please support Jay anyway you can if you have ever been touched by his unique energy 🖤 this man deserves freedom from this cruel and unreasonable punishment. Free jay!! 😭😭,” she wrote in an update posted on July 6.

“Jay called this morning and the sadness in his voice today is the first I’ve heard it like this. My heart breaks for him. Anyone who is close to Jay, knows Jay, and really knows the situation, knows this is NOT OKAY. This isn’t for media or tv at all anymore, this is someone’s LIFE! Free this happy soul!! 😭💔 #weloveyoujay #freejay  😪😪,” Kayla wrote in a second update.

Since Kayla launched the GoFundMe for Jay five days ago, fans and followers have donated $3,345, which more than halfway towards the $5,000 goal.

Do you think Jay should be deported if he is found guilty of violating his PFA? Let us know in the comments below.