The family of Cuban reggaeton artist Abel Díaz Rodríguez, famously known as El Chulo, has stepped forward to counter the serious allegations made by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). ICE has labeled him as a "dangerous criminal" and an active member of the Latin Kings gang, while the artist remains in custody at an immigration facility in Florida.
ICE's official statements, shared via Telemundo, paint El Chulo as an undocumented immigrant with a severe criminal history linked to one of the most violent criminal organizations in the United States. Nevertheless, those closest to him dispute this depiction, asserting that the singer is not the individual federal authorities claim he is.
In a conversation with Univision journalist Javier Díaz, Eleannys Almanza, the artist's former partner and mother of his first child, staunchly defended El Chulo's character. She described him as a dedicated family man, hard-working, and peaceful.
"He is a kind and focused individual, free from drug use and unrelated to any trouble. His efforts have always been directed towards working hard and supporting his family," she declared.
According to her, El Chulo has been a present father not only to his biological son but also to her other child, firmly denying any gang affiliations or violent behavior as ICE claims in their statements.
Challenging the Narrative
The family believes the accusations labeling him as a member of the Latin Kings are false and questions why the federal agency uses him as an example of "high public risk."
ICE asserts that Díaz Rodríguez was convicted in 2017 for attempted second-degree murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Since 2018, he has faced a final deportation order.
The artist was apprehended on January 22 and transferred to the Florida Soft Side South detention center, colloquially known as "Alligator Alcatraz," where he remains in custody.
While authorities claim his immigration future is uncertain and he could be deported to Cuba or even a third country, his family insists that the public image being presented does not reflect the reality of the man they know. For now, El Chulo's family has requested privacy and refrained from making further public statements, pending a response from his legal team.
Understanding the Allegations Against El Chulo
What are the charges against El Chulo according to ICE?
According to ICE, El Chulo is accused of being a dangerous criminal and an active member of the Latin Kings gang, with a conviction in 2017 for attempted second-degree murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
How has El Chulo's family responded to the ICE allegations?
El Chulo's family has strongly denied the allegations, describing him as a peaceful, hardworking family man, and asserting that the accusations do not reflect his true character.
What is the current status of El Chulo's immigration case?
El Chulo is currently detained at a Florida immigration facility, with his immigration status uncertain. Authorities suggest he could be deported to Cuba or another country, but his family and legal team continue to challenge this outcome.