ICE Eyes Deportation of Florida Cubans with Serious Criminal Records

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has scaled up its efforts in Florida, focusing its enforcement on Cuban nationals with criminal records for serious offenses. This shift highlights a tougher stance on immigration, aiming to expedite the removal of those deemed a threat to public safety.

Details on Florida Enforcement Actions

In recent weeks, multiple reports have emerged of Cubans being taken into custody during routine supervision appointments or through targeted raids. Notable cases include individuals with past convictions for armed robbery, aggravated assault, and other violent crimes committed within the United States.

The federal administration has stated that while repatriations to Cuba are often complex due to the political climate, those convicted of severe crimes are now a top priority. Detention facilities across South Florida have seen an increase in the number of Cuban nationals awaiting final deportation orders.

The Context of Repatriations to Cuba

Unlike in previous years, when many Cubans with deportation orders remained in a legal limbo under supervision (I-220B), the resumption of deportation flights has altered the reality. The Cuban government has agreed to accept these nationals on charter flights coordinated by ICE, a process that has become more frequent throughout early 2026.

Key Cases

Aliosky Rosales Michelena: Detained after being identified with a history of violence.
Rafael Cortina Pantoja: In federal custody awaiting his return flight to Havana.
Yusney Figueroa: Arrested in Orlando after serving time for armed robbery.

Impact on the Cuban Community

This shift in immigration policy has sparked concern among the thousands of Cubans in the U.S. with precarious statuses, such as the I-220A. While current efforts focus on those with criminal records, immigration attorneys advise the community to stay up-to-date with their cases and attend all supervision appointments with legal representation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who is ICE currently prioritizing for deportation?

The absolute priority is currently foreign nationals, including Cubans, with criminal histories involving serious or violent offenses.

2. Are Cubans without criminal records being deported?

While the focus is on those with convictions, anyone with a final order of removal faces risk, especially if they fail to comply with supervision requirements.

3. What should Cubans with I-220A or I-220B documents do?

It is critical to speak with an immigration lawyer to explore options for legal status and to prepare for ICE check-ins properly.

4. Is Cuba accepting all deportation flights?

Not all, but there is a bilateral agreement in place to receive Cuban nationals who have committed serious crimes in the U.S.

Sources: CiberCuba, elTOQUE, Cuba en Miami