Trump Welcomes Justo Betancourt Home After Detention

Donald Trump recently welcomed Justo Betancourt, a Cuban-born resident of Miami, back home. Betancourt had been held in federal immigration detention for months at the Florida Everglades facility, nicknamed Alligator Alcatraz.

“Welcome home to Justo Betancourt, whose daughter, Arianne, fought very hard to free her father from Alligator Alcatraz. Enjoy your freedom together,” Trump stated on TruthSocial.

Betancourt has lived in the United States for many years. He was in custody for over six months after a routine immigration check-in led to his detention, according to court records. A federal judge ordered his release on May 14, after his legal team argued successfully for a habeas corpus ruling. They claimed Betancourt was wrongfully detained, prompting federal authorities to set him free.

Arianne Betancourt, his daughter, played a key role in advocating for his release. She was vocal and active throughout the detention, working tirelessly on her father’s behalf.

Background on Justo Betancourt

In 1990, Betancourt entered the US, eventually receiving lawful status. However, in 2020, an immigration judge ordered his removal due to criminal convictions, including conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. This information was documented in the court records dated May 13.

Because Betancourt is a Cuban national and could not be easily deported, he was released under supervision. He had to attend regular check-ins while living in the community, as the court documents explained. On October 29, 2025, he was detained again during one of these check-ins.

Authorities tried to deport him to Mexico in January 2026, but the attempt failed. He was denied entry because of “medical and mental health issues,” according to the court documents.