U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), in collaboration with the FBI, has arrested a Cuban national accused of fraudulently obtaining Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) status. Tomas Emilio Hernandez Cruz, 71, was apprehended at his home in West Park following an investigation into fraudulent claims on his immigration application.
The investigation began in September 2023 when ICE's Homeland Security Investigations Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force, along with the FBI Miami Division, found inconsistencies in Hernandez Cruz’s application that required further scrutiny. It was discovered that Hernandez Cruz had served as a member of Cuban intelligence in various high-level positions overseas. He allegedly withheld this information about his role within the Cuban Communist Party to mislead U.S. authorities during his LPR application process.
Hernandez Cruz is currently in ICE custody awaiting removal proceedings. The public is encouraged to report crimes or suspicious activities by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or by using the online tip form.
For updates on HSI's efforts to enforce immigration laws, follow them on X at @HSI_Miami.
