Leonel Moreno, a migrant influencer who encouraged illegal activities on TikTok, has been deported to Venezuela following a series of disruptions during his flight. Arrested for failing to comply with immigration regulations, Moreno’s controversial videos drew significant attention, leading to investigations into his background and claims of persecution.

Leonel Moreno, known as a “migrant influencer,” has been deported to Venezuela after promoting illegal migration through TikTok. Moreno encouraged followers to occupy vacant homes while showcasing government cash assistance he received. His deportation comes amid President Trump’s renewed efforts to return migrants to Venezuela. During his deportation flight, Moreno reportedly caused disturbances, necessitating extra security.

Moreno illegally crossed the Texas border in April 2022 and was released into the U.S., subsequently failing to comply with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) check-ins. Following his arrest in March 2024 in Gahanna, Ohio, an immigration judge ordered his deportation last October, which was delayed until the recent allowance of deportation flights by Venezuela.

Moreno gained notoriety for his TikTok videos where he boasted about government benefits and prompted other Venezuelans to take over abandoned properties. He claimed, “I didn’t cross the Rio Grande to work like a slave,” while displaying cash. He allegedly utilized his U.S. citizen baby to further his social media reach and highlighted how they incurred no costs for their daughter’s birth due to aid from President Biden.

There are reports that ICE is investigating Moreno’s prior roles in Venezuela’s military intelligence. In a media interview while incarcerated, he portrayed himself as a victim of unfair treatment, stating, “I came here to the United States because of persecution in my country… they’re doing the same thing to me in the United States — persecuting me.” He claimed extensive media misrepresentation and affirmed his positive character and values.

In summary, Leonel Moreno’s deportation highlights the complexities surrounding illegal migration and the impact of social media. His case underscores the challenges of compliance with immigration laws and has drawn attention to both the U.S. government policies under President Trump and Moreno’s controversial actions that led to his notoriety. The dynamics of his return to Venezuela illustrate the ongoing realities faced by migrants and the political narratives surrounding immigration policies.

Original Source: nypost.com

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