Donald Trump extended a “welcome home” to Justo Betancourt, a Miami resident originally from Cuba, who spent several months detained in a federal immigration facility in the Florida Everglades, known as Alligator Alcatraz.
In a TruthSocial post, Trump stated, “Welcome home to Justo Betancourt, whose Daughter, Arianne, fought very hard to free her father from Alligator Alcatraz. Enjoy your Freedom together.”
Betancourt has been living in the United States for decades. He was detained for over six months after a routine immigration check-in led to his custody, as highlighted in court documents.
On May 14, a federal judge ordered his release from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention. His legal team successfully argued that his detention was wrongful, leading to a habeas corpus decision compelling the federal authorities to release him.
His daughter, Arianne Betancourt, became a significant advocate for her father’s release. She spoke out publicly and actively worked for his discharge throughout his detention.
Who Is Justo Betancourt?
Betancourt entered the United States in 1990 and was granted lawful status. However, in 2020, an immigration judge ordered his removal following criminal convictions, including conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, as detailed in court documents from May 13 regarding his release.
As a Cuban national, he was not easily deportable. Consequently, immigration authorities released him under supervision with the condition of regular community check-ins, according to court records.
On October 29, 2025, during one of these check-ins, authorities took him back into custody, as stated in the court documents.
In January 2026, attempts were made to deport him to Mexico. However, he was denied entry due to “medical and mental health issues,” according to court filings.
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