Federal immigration arrest in new jersey follows release of cuban national with prior convictions

Federal immigration arrest in New Jersey follows release of Cuban national with prior convictions

by
April 2, 2026

ICE arrests Cuban national in New Jersey after prison release, citing prior convictions

Newark, NJ – A Cuban national with a final order of removal was taken into custody in New Jersey following his release from federal prison, according to federal immigration officials. The arrest was carried out by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations unit based in Newark.

Officials identified the individual as Michel Proenza Martinez, describing him as a “criminal illegal alien from Cuba” who had previously been ordered removed from the United States. The agency confirmed the arrest occurred immediately after his release from custody.

In a public statement, ERO Newark said, “ICE arrested Michel Proenza Martinez, a criminal illegal alien from Cuba with a final order of removal, following his release from federal prison in New Jersey.” The agency also detailed his criminal background, stating, “His extensive criminal record includes: BURGLARY GRAND THEFT AUTO DRUG OFFENSES HOBBS ACT ROBBERY.”

Criminal history outlined by federal officials

Authorities reported that Martinez’s record includes multiple felony offenses spanning property crimes, narcotics violations, and robbery-related charges under federal law. The Hobbs Act robbery charge refers to interference with commerce by robbery, a federal offense often prosecuted in cases involving organized or interstate criminal activity.

Key Points

  • ICE Newark arrested a Cuban national following his release from federal prison in New Jersey
  • The individual had a final order of removal prior to the arrest
  • Officials cited prior convictions including burglary, drug offenses, and Hobbs Act robbery

Federal immigration authorities did not release additional details about the timeline of Martinez’s prior convictions or the length of his prison sentence. It also remains unclear when removal proceedings will be carried out following the arrest.

ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations is responsible for identifying, arresting, and removing noncitizens who are subject to deportation orders, including those with criminal convictions.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

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