ICE Arrests More Than 400 Undocumented Immigrants in Major Operation in Central Florida

ICE arrests 400 immigrants in Florida

One-week operation in Florida

Arrests include criminals with records

In a joint operation, ICE Miami announced the detention of more than 400 undocumented immigrants in Central Florida.

The arrests took place between September 22 and 26 with the support of state and local agencies.

The operation included collaboration from the Florida Highway Patrol, several sheriff’s offices, and the National Guard.

Authorities explained that the priority was to arrest foreign nationals with criminal records and outstanding deportation orders.

Operation Under the 287(g) Program

ICE Arrests More Than 400 Undocumented Immigrants in Central Florida-Foto: ShutterstockPh

The effort is part of the 287(g) program, expanded in Florida under the administration of Governor Ron DeSantis.

According to official data, the state currently has 327 such agreements — a 577% increase since 2021.

The operation also aligns with the Trump administration’s strategy to strengthen public safety.

ICE stated that the goal of its operations is to remove from the streets those who pose a serious threat to the community.

Authorities’ Statements

Garrett Ripa, field office director of Miami’s Enforcement and Removal Operations, praised ICE actions.

“Undocumented immigrants can no longer be allowed to break our laws and pose a threat to our communities,” he said.

Ripa added: “This joint 287(g) operation, lasting one week, focused on combating these threats to public safety.”

“Together, we are making Florida a safer place!” he emphasized.

Crimes Linked to Those Arrested by ICE

Among those detained are individuals with records of sexual abuse, domestic violence, narcotics, and theft.

Walhter Ramiro Hernández-Ortiz, 18, from Honduras, accused of assault and sexual abuse of a minor.

Juan Carlos Hernández Reyes, 48, from Mexico, with a history of domestic violence and drunk driving.

Edgar Rivera-Salinas, 38, from Mexico, previously deported, with charges of theft and marijuana possession.

Repeat Offenders in Florida

Efraín Santos-Palacios, 26, arrested after multiple DUIs and hit-and-run incidents.

Pedro Juan Andrés, 29, from Guatemala, facing charges of robbery and resisting arrest with violence.

David Dorantes Martínez, 47, from Mexico, with a final deportation order.

ICE reminded the public that those who ignore judicial orders worsen their legal standing and face immediate arrest and removal.

Profile of Other Detainees

Ubaldino Hernández-Hernández, 41, charged with reckless driving and probation violations.

Aurelio Hernández-Hernández, with a record of DUIs and multiple traffic offenses.

Mario Suárez-Maya, 47, arrested for driving without a license and providing false identity.

Yoni Méndez-López, 29, accused of assaulting law enforcement officers was also arrested by ICE.

ICE’s Commitment to Security

ICE stated its operations aim to enforce immigration law fairly and effectively.

“Many of these individuals remained illegally in Florida and have sown chaos in our neighborhoods,” the agency said in a statement.

The agency reiterated that it prioritizes the removal of those who pose the highest risk to public safety.

The public can report suspicious activity by calling 866-347-2423 or visiting ICE.gov.