A Cuban man named Robinson Ahumada-Forten, aged 39, was detained by ICE's Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) team in Miami. Authorities confirmed that he had been residing in the United States illegally since 2024 and had a criminal record. According to a statement released by ERO Miami on social media platform X, Ahumada-Forten was found to be in violation of the Laken Riley Act, with a history of domestic violence offenses.
The arrest took place in the early hours of August 23, 2025, in Pinellas County, Florida. Local Sheriff's Office apprehended him at 3:38 a.m. Official reports state that he was living in St. Petersburg. Ahumada-Forten is described as being 6 feet tall, weighing 250 pounds, with a dark complexion, brown eyes, and a shaved head.
ICE emphasized that this case highlights their dedication to identifying and deporting foreign nationals with criminal backgrounds who pose a threat to public safety. "We will not allow foreign criminals with violent histories to remain illegally in our country," ERO Miami declared.
The arrested individual is currently in immigration custody as procedures are underway for his possible deportation back to Cuba. In recent months, numerous Cubans with criminal records have been apprehended and deported as part of the Trump Administration's crackdowns. Additionally, there have been instances of Cuban immigrants without criminal backgrounds or final deportation orders being detained in ICE facilities, facing expulsion processes.
Just the day before, another Cuban national who was convicted in 2024 for human trafficking was deported from the United States after being re-arrested by immigration authorities. According to the statement, the individual had been found guilty last year of attempting to smuggle 29 people, including several minors, in the back of a tractor-trailer, which the authorities described as a "reckless and dangerous act."
FAQs on Cuban Nationals and U.S. Immigration Enforcement
What is the Laken Riley Act?
The Laken Riley Act is a legislative measure that outlines specific immigration violations and penalties, focusing on individuals who pose a threat to public safety due to their criminal activities.
What happens to Cuban nationals detained by ICE?
Cuban nationals detained by ICE may be held in immigration custody while their cases are reviewed. Depending on the outcome, they may face deportation back to Cuba, especially if they have a criminal record or pose a threat to public safety.
How does ICE determine who to deport?
ICE prioritizes the deportation of individuals who have committed crimes, pose a threat to national security, or have violated immigration laws. Each case is assessed on its own merits, considering factors such as criminal history and risk to public safety.