Willy Allen, a Florida-based lawyer with expertise in immigration, is advising Cuban reggaeton artist Yosvani Sierra, popularly known as Chocolate MC, to swiftly self-deport to Cuba using the CBP Home app. Allen warns that this move could prevent Sierra from being detained in a foreign jail, such as in El Salvador, if Cuba refuses to take him back, much like the case with social media influencer Cinthya Medrano, also known as La Cintumbare.
Given Chocolate MC's criminal record in the United States, Allen strongly believes that deportation to Cuba is likely. "When you consider his offenses, including domestic abuse, you have to wonder why he's still here. With his history of violating U.S. laws, I think he’s earned himself a ticket back to Cuba," Allen remarked during his Monday program on CiberCuba.
Potential Outcomes for Chocolate MC
Allen speculates that if Cuba accepts him like they did La Cintumbare, Chocolate MC might find himself collaborating with figures like Raúl Castro's grandson on new music. However, if Cuba turns him away, Allen suggests that ongoing negotiations by Secretary of State Marco Rubio with countries in Africa or Latin America could see him relocated far from the U.S., making his return difficult.
"Chocolate risks having to perform his music elsewhere if Cuba doesn't accept him. I strongly advise him to self-deport as quickly as possible," Allen emphasized. "Much like La Cintumbare, Chocolate had the chance to build a life here in the U.S., but they squandered it."
Allen's Perspective on Immigrants and Criminal Activity
Allen expresses little sympathy for immigrants who misuse their chance to live in the United States by engaging in criminal activities, ranging from domestic abuse to drug offenses and fraud. "For me, those who come into a country that isn't theirs and misbehave are essentially defiling their host’s home. I don't lose sleep over those who waste such opportunities."
The attorney also asserts that hunger strikes in deportation centers, like the one reportedly started by Chocolate MC on May 4th, are ineffective in the U.S. "I pay more attention to what Marco Rubio is negotiating. If Rubio is working to send people to other countries, I believe him. If I were in Chocolate MC's shoes, I'd be calling the Cuban embassy in Washington, pleading for acceptance."
Coincidentally, the Department of Homeland Security announced a "historic opportunity" for foreigners opting to self-deport via the CBP Home app. This initiative offers a $1,000 stipend upon arrival in their home countries, with the possibility of returning to the U.S. in the future.
FAQs on Self-Deportation and Immigration Policy
What is the CBP Home app?
The CBP Home app is a tool provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection that facilitates the self-deportation process for immigrants who choose to return to their home countries voluntarily.
Can self-deported individuals return to the U.S.?
Yes, individuals who self-deport through the CBP Home app may have the opportunity to return to the United States in the future, according to current DHS policies.
Why is Chocolate MC advised to self-deport?
Attorney Willy Allen advises Chocolate MC to self-deport to avoid potential imprisonment in a foreign country if Cuba refuses his return, given his criminal record in the U.S.