ICE arrests former Cuban intelligence officer for allegedly obtaining legal status through fraudulent means
March 14, 2025Miami, FL, United StatesDocument and Benefit Fraud
MIAMI – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, with the FBI, administratively arrested a Cuban national who allegedly gained Legal Permanent Resident status through fraudulent means.
Tomas Emilio Hernandez Cruz, 71, from West Park was arrested at his residence after an investigation into fraudulent claims he made on his immigration application. In September 2023, ICE Homeland Security Investigations Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force alongside FBI Miami Division, initiated an investigation regarding inconsistencies in Hernandez Cruz’s immigration application that warranted further investigation.
During the course of the investigation, it was determined that Hernandez Cruz was a member of Cuban intelligence at various high-level posts overseas. Hernandez Cruz knowingly and willfully withheld his true position and profession within the Cuban Communist Party to deliberately deceive U.S. authorities when he applied for and obtained his LPR status.
Hernandez Cruz was arrested, processed and is currently in ICE custody pending removal proceedings.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
For more news and information on HSI efforts to enforce our nation’s immigration laws follow us on X at @HSI_Miami.
Source: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE.gov)