A Cuban national holding permanent residency in the United States found himself behind bars in Tennessee after a traffic stop led to a startling discovery. Authorities uncovered five firearms—three of which were reported stolen—and approximately 800 rounds of ammunition inside the truck he was driving.
The individual in custody is identified as 37-year-old Frank Osmani Díaz Tamayo. According to reports from WKRN News 2, the 18th Judicial District Drug Task Force officers stopped him on July 10 along Highway 31 West near Millersville, Sumner County. The stop was prompted by Díaz Tamayo following another vehicle too closely and committing a lane violation.
Before the search, an officer inquired if he had any firearms. Díaz Tamayo's response was blunt: "Do your job."
The search confirmed the presence of five firearms, with three having been stolen in Texas, along with hundreds of rounds of various calibers.
Extensive Criminal Background
Authorities state that Díaz Tamayo is well-known to law enforcement. "He has an extensive criminal history involving firearms and narcotics. Earlier this year, he was arrested for marijuana smuggling and is recognized as a known trafficker," shared a member of the drug task force.
Additionally, he has outstanding warrants in Colorado and Nebraska for failing to appear in court over drug and weapon-related matters. When informed of these outstanding warrants while in the patrol car, Díaz Tamayo claimed ignorance.
During the arrest, he stated he was traveling to visit family, mentioned he is a father of two daughters, claimed he works daily, and insisted he had not used drugs for over two years.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Díaz Tamayo faces several charges, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, theft of firearms, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving without a valid license, and two traffic violations.
A bond of $110,000 was set, and after posting it, he was photographed on July 15 outside the jail with an electronic monitor affixed to his left ankle.
ICE Weighs Immigration Consequences
This case could also lead to significant immigration repercussions. The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency verified to WKRN that Díaz Tamayo is a lawful permanent resident. However, his status is under review due to his criminal record.
Federal law stipulates that certain firearm-related offenses can render a permanent resident deportable, even if they are not classified as aggravated felonies. The situation has become more stringent following a June 2026 U.S. Supreme Court decision, which facilitates the expulsion of permanent residents with criminal backgrounds in specific immigration proceedings.
Díaz Tamayo is scheduled to reappear in court on July 27, as both his legal case and immigration status remain under federal scrutiny.
Legal and Immigration Concerns for Cuban Residents in the U.S.
What charges is Frank Osmani Díaz Tamayo facing?
Díaz Tamayo is facing charges for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, theft of firearms, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving without a valid license, and two traffic violations.
How does ICE's review of Díaz Tamayo's case affect his immigration status?
ICE is evaluating Díaz Tamayo's permanent resident status due to his criminal record. Certain firearm-related offenses may lead to deportation, as federal law allows for deportation of permanent residents for specific crimes.
When is Díaz Tamayo scheduled to appear in court?
Díaz Tamayo is set to appear in court again on July 27, as his legal and immigration cases proceed.