Emiliano Martínez Pérez, a 54-year-old Cuban with a history of drug offenses, was captured in Texas following a deportation order that has been pending since 2000, according to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on September 2.
The arrest took place on August 5 in San Saba County during a coordinated operation between ICE and the local Sheriff's Office.
Authorities in the county had notified federal agents on July 14 after Martínez Pérez failed to appear at a court hearing concerning new charges of kidnapping, sexual assault, unlawful restraint, and illegal tattooing, stemming from incidents in May.
The Cuban's interactions with the U.S. justice system date back nearly thirty years. He was convicted of cocaine possession in 1998, and by February 2000, he had received a final deportation order.
In 2007, he faced another conviction, this time for drug trafficking. ICE's statement did not clarify what transpired after Martínez Pérez's 2000 deportation order or the circumstances surrounding his illegal re-entry into Texas in June 2018.
"This illegal immigrant with a criminal background was ordered deported from the United States over 26 years ago. Since then, he has been convicted of drug trafficking and is now in prison facing charges of kidnapping, sexual assault, unlawful restraint, and illegal tattooing," stated David J. Venturella, ICE's acting director.
The agency also issued an immigration detainer against Martínez Pérez, aiming for his transfer to ICE custody upon release from local authorities.
Importance of Interagency Cooperation
Venturella emphasized the significance of the 287(g) program, which enables state and local law enforcement to collaborate with ICE in identifying and detaining immigrants subject to immigration measures.
The arrest occurs amid a marked increase in immigration enforcement operations against Cubans. Detentions of Cuban nationals by ICE surged by 463% between late 2024 and 2025.
In July, another Cuban with a pending deportation order since 2007 was detained, and in April, authorities arrested a Cuban citizen in Miami with an order dating back to 1980.
The execution of these orders has been facilitated by the resumption of deportations to Cuba. Since early 2026, Havana has been receiving approximately one flight per month and has accepted individuals convicted of serious crimes.
This case is part of a constantly evolving immigration landscape. Stay updated on arrests, deportations, and immigration policies in our Immigration in the U.S. section.
Frequently Asked Questions about Deportations and Arrests
What led to Emiliano Martínez Pérez's arrest?
Martínez Pérez was arrested in Texas due to a longstanding deportation order from 2000 and new charges including kidnapping and sexual assault.
How has ICE's enforcement changed recently?
ICE's enforcement actions have increased significantly, with a 463% surge in detentions of Cuban nationals between late 2024 and 2025.
What is the 287(g) program?
The 287(g) program allows state and local law enforcement agencies to work with ICE to identify and detain immigrants subject to deportation.
What role does Cuba play in deportations?
Cuba has resumed accepting deportation flights from the U.S., receiving about one flight per month and agreeing to accept individuals convicted of serious crimes.