A Cuban national with a history of criminal convictions was apprehended by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during an operation in southern Florida last week and is now facing deportation. In collaboration with the U.S. Border Patrol, ICE officers carried out immigration enforcement actions in Palm Beach County on January 27 and 28, resulting in the capture of 32 foreign nationals without legal status who have been convicted of crimes, according to a statement from the government agency.
The individuals arrested hail from countries including Cuba, Guatemala, Haiti, Mexico, Honduras, El Salvador, Venezuela, Colombia, Brazil, and Nicaragua. Among them is a 24-year-old Cuban man, whose identity was not disclosed, with a criminal record including fraud, theft, failure to appear in court, and probation violation. ICE's statement confirmed that he is currently in custody awaiting deportation.
The 32 immigrants taken into custody have faced legal proceedings for various offenses such as drug possession, illegal reentry, resisting an officer, theft, probation violation, credit card fraud, shoplifting, prostitution, driving under the influence, and possession of stolen property. "All illegal immigrants detained during this operation will remain in custody pending their removal from the United States or a hearing before an immigration judge," ICE emphasized.
Among those arrested is a 30-year-old Venezuelan with convictions for resisting an officer, drug possession, and theft, as well as a 25-year-old Guatemalan sentenced for illegal reentry, cocaine possession, and driving under the influence. Both remain in detention awaiting deportation. A 44-year-old Haitian woman, facing charges of assault, drug possession, prostitution, and possession of narcotic equipment, was also detained. She is scheduled to appear at a deportation hearing before an immigration judge, according to the official communication.
These raids in Palm Beach County are part of the new policies implemented by President Donald Trump's administration following his return to power, focusing on curbing illegal immigration, safeguarding the nation's borders, and protecting U.S. citizens. Since taking office on January 20, Trump and his cabinet have been promoting immigration enforcement operations nationwide, utilizing officers from multiple federal agencies to increase arrests of illegal immigrants who have committed crimes and execute mass deportations to their home countries.
According to figures shared on the social media platform X, ICE has apprehended over 8,000 immigrants since the administration began. The United States is conducting deportation flights and collaborating with countries in the region to curb illegal migration to its territory. Tom Homan, appointed by Trump to lead immigration and border security policies, announced that deportations of immigrants would commence to the Guantanamo Naval Base in Cuba within 30 days.
Understanding ICE Enforcement and Deportation
What is the role of ICE in immigration enforcement?
ICE is responsible for enforcing immigration laws, including the detention and deportation of individuals who are in the United States illegally and have committed crimes.
How does the deportation process work for detained immigrants?
Detained immigrants typically remain in custody while awaiting a hearing before an immigration judge, where their case is reviewed to determine if deportation is warranted.
What are the consequences of illegal reentry into the United States?
Illegal reentry into the United States is a federal crime that can result in arrest, prosecution, and deportation, as well as bans on future entry into the country.