A Cuban national lacking legal immigration status and possessing a lengthy criminal record has been apprehended once more in Florida following a dramatic car theft that escalated into a high-stakes chase, as reported by local media. Deibbys Cardoso Rodríguez, 31, originally from Cienfuegos, was taken into custody by the Martin County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) after stealing a Jeep Wrangler in Broward and heading north to Stuart, allegedly in search of new victims. Authorities reported that he attempted to cause another collision before being subdued by officers.
Sheriff John Budensiek emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that this marks Cardoso's 38th arrest, with charges ranging from theft, drug trafficking, and violence to indecent exposure, brawling, and grand theft. "He's on his 38th chance. That's about 37 too many for us, so it's time," Budensiek remarked, as reported by CBS12.
A day following the arrest, the MCSO's Criminal Investigations Division announced that they have already reached out to federal immigration authorities to review his case, though officers question why deportation hadn't occurred earlier.
The Unending Cycle of Crime
Cardoso's criminal history includes hit-and-run incidents, driving under the influence, car theft, trafficking stolen goods, resisting arrest, disorderly intoxication, and drug offenses. He currently faces charges for grand theft auto and driving without a license, and he remains incarcerated at the Martin County jail.
According to the official inmate record, Cardoso was booked on September 8, 2025. He weighs 170 pounds and stands 5 feet 6 inches tall. He currently faces two charges: motor vehicle grand theft and driving with a suspended or revoked license. His total bond is set at $3,000, with $2,500 for theft and $500 for driving without a license.
Previous Offenses and a Troubled Past
One of Cardoso's offenses occurred in July 2024, when he was arrested in Miami Beach after assaulting a hotel employee, exposing himself, and threatening sexual assault. At that time, police also identified him as a homeless individual with a significant criminal record and drug issues. "Choices like these have a very predictable outcome: if you take the wrong exit, you're definitely on the wrong path," Sheriff Budensiek warned regarding the recent arrest.
Cardoso's repeated criminal behavior highlights the social vulnerabilities faced by many immigrants without defined status, while also exposing flaws within the U.S. immigration and judicial systems. These systemic issues have allowed a man with nearly 40 arrests to continue committing serious crimes in South Florida.
Understanding the Impact of Recidivism and Immigration Policies
Why wasn't Deibbys Cardoso Rodríguez deported after multiple arrests?
Despite his extensive criminal record, systemic issues within the U.S. immigration and judicial systems have allowed Cardoso to remain in the country, raising questions about the effectiveness of deportation protocols.
What charges is Cardoso currently facing?
Cardoso is currently charged with grand theft auto and driving with a suspended or revoked license, with a total bond set at $3,000.
What does Cardoso's criminal history include?
His criminal history is extensive, including offenses such as theft, drug trafficking, violence, indecent exposure, hit-and-run incidents, and driving under the influence.