A Cuban national with a criminal history involving armed robbery, burglary, and other offenses was apprehended by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers in Columbia, South Carolina, as announced by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on Thursday.
The arrest took place on October 13 and is part of the authorities' "Worst of the Worst" campaign, spotlighting cases of undocumented immigrants detained by ICE who have criminal records.
The Cuban, identified by the initials R. L.-R., is among five foreign nationals highlighted in the DHS's official statement and by Secretary of Homeland Security, Markwayne Mullin.
According to the released information, R. L.-R. has been convicted of three offenses involving illegal entry into premises with criminal intent, an armed robbery at a commercial establishment, and a similar crime at a bank.
His record also includes charges for possession of burglary tools, possession of stolen property, property damage, theft, and driving under the influence of alcohol.
The DHS did not specify the dates of these convictions or the circumstances surrounding the crimes. There is no information regarding whether the Cuban has a current deportation order or his present status under immigration custody. No statements from the detainee or his legal defense are available.
This case was also reported on Thursday by the U.S. outlet The Daily Signal, which noted that the White House emphasized these arrests during President Donald Trump's visit to South Carolina.
The other four foreigners mentioned are from Guatemala, Mexico, El Salvador, and Colombia, with criminal backgrounds that, according to authorities, include homicide, assault, drug trafficking, and conspiracy to hold hostages resulting in death.
This apprehension adds to recent cases of Cubans included in the DHS's ongoing campaign. This week, three more citizens from the island were identified by U.S. authorities due to their criminal histories.
Frequently Asked Questions about ICE Detentions
What is the "Worst of the Worst" campaign?
The "Worst of the Worst" campaign is an initiative by ICE to highlight cases of undocumented immigrants with serious criminal records who have been detained by the agency.
Who is Markwayne Mullin?
Markwayne Mullin is the Secretary of Homeland Security, responsible for overseeing the Department of Homeland Security and its various initiatives, including immigration enforcement.
What types of crimes did the Cuban national commit?
The Cuban national has been convicted of armed robbery, burglary, possession of burglary tools, possession of stolen property, property damage, theft, and driving under the influence of alcohol.