Cuban Mariel Refugee Detained, faces Deportation Amidst Heightened ICE Enforcement
ALLIGATOR, FL – November 11, 2025 – A Cuban man who arrived in the united States during the 1980 Mariel Boatlift is currently detained in Florida, facing deportation due to an extensive criminal history, according to recent reports. The case highlights a surge in deportations of Cuban nationals with criminal records under the administration of Donald Trump.
The individual, recently detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has prior charges including drug possession and aggravated assault with injury. His detention is part of a broader effort to “capture and expel immigrants from the country” undocumented, notably those with criminal backgrounds, a policy affirmed by a Supreme Court ruling.
The Mariel exodus, beginning in April 1980, saw over 125,000 Cubans travel to the U.S., seeking refuge from poverty and repression under Fidel Castro. However, the influx included not only those fleeing hardship but also individuals released from Cuban prisons and psychiatric institutions by the Castro government, described as “undesirable” elements.
Currently, over 42,000 Cubans have final deportation orders, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). However, the Cuban government’s refusal to accept individuals with U.S. criminal records, or those who left the country before January 2017 immigration agreements, has led to the deportation of some Cubans to third nations – including South Sudan, the Kingdom of Eswatini, Rwanda, and Mexico – sparking criticism from human rights organizations and legal experts concerned about potential risks of torture or death.
At least four Cubans with final deportation orders have already been sent to African countries.
Despite these complications, deportation flights to Cuba continue monthly, adhering to existing immigration agreements. As of November 6, 2025, a total of 1,231 Cuban migrants have been deported to Cuba by air since January 23, 2025, including 232 individuals returned to the island on November 6th in the tenth air operation since Trump took office.
