The Cuban influencer José Ángel Molina Vale, more widely recognized on social media as Chichy or @chichy813, is currently under the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after his arrest on Tuesday in Charlotte County, Florida, and subsequent transfer to immigration authorities.
According to the Charlotte County arrest records, the incident unfolded following a traffic stop on an interstate highway. Molina Vale, a 35-year-old Cuban national, was booked into the county jail at 3:58 p.m., facing two charges: possession of no more than 20 grams of marijuana and possession or use of drug paraphernalia.
The Rapid Escalation
The situation quickly intensified. Just two days after the arrest, ICE's official locator recorded "Jose Molina-Vale," born in Cuba, as being held in federal custody in Florida. A later look-up in the agency's detainee search system shows that his current detention facility is the Collier County Sheriff's Office.
Community and Colleague Reactions
The content creator known as Destino Tolk, who produces the reality shows Chichy has been involved in, confirmed the news through an Instagram video, stating he was the first to be informed of the arrest. "When the police apprehended Chichy, I got the scoop firsthand. I was the first person they called. But I don't enjoy exploiting such situations," he expressed in the video, filmed on the set of a new project installment.
Destino Tolk also shared that he has maintained direct communication with Chichy since his detention and relayed the influencer's regret over missing future projects: "Boss, almost in tears, I let you down, I failed, I wanted to do the third season with you," were Chichy's words, according to the producer.
Chichy's Digital Influence
Chichy amassed a significant following in the Cuban-Latino digital entertainment scene before his involvement in La Prisión de Destino, the second major reality series by Destino Tolk, launched this June with 21 participants. His popularity surged earlier in February when fans campaigned for his participation in a potential second season of El Rancho de Destino, the same producer's inaugural reality show. His Instagram account boasts over 85,000 followers.
Chichy's arrest reflects a trend involving other Cuban influencers in the United States: a local arrest on minor charges leading to ICE custody due to irregular immigration status, amid Florida's intensified immigration operations. Arrests of Cubans in Florida surged by 463% between late 2024 and early 2026.
The arrest record emphasizes that the charges do not imply guilt and that every individual should be presumed innocent until proven otherwise in court. As of this Friday, there is no judicial resolution regarding the case.
Understanding the Legal and Immigration Implications
What charges led to Chichy's arrest in Florida?
Chichy was arrested for possession of no more than 20 grams of marijuana and possession or use of drug paraphernalia.
Why was Chichy transferred to ICE custody?
Chichy was transferred to ICE custody due to his irregular immigration status following his arrest in Florida.
How has Chichy's arrest affected his digital career?
Chichy's arrest has caused him to miss future projects, as confirmed by his communication with producer Destino Tolk.