First Arrest Under Alien Enemies Act: ICE Detains Alleged Tren de Aragua Gang Member in Florida

The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have made a significant announcement regarding the apprehension of an alleged member of the Tren de Aragua (TdA) gang from Venezuela. This arrest marks the first detainment under the recently invoked Alien Enemies Act by President Donald Trump.

First Arrest under the Alien Enemies Act

Officials have confirmed that Franklin Jose Jimenez-Bracho is the first individual to be detained under the Alien Enemies Act, which President Trump invoked last week. This act has been brought into effect to target foreign terrorist organizations that pose a threat to the United States.

Tren de Aragua Gang Identified as a Threat

During a news conference, ICE Director Todd Lyons emphasized the dangerous nature of the Tren de Aragua gang, describing it as a foreign terrorist organization that has infiltrated various aspects of American society. He highlighted the gang's involvement in heinous crimes, including murder, rape, theft, drug trafficking, weapon trafficking, and human trafficking, asserting that they have been operating freely within the United States.

Commitment to Eradicate TdA from U.S. Soil

Lyons further noted that President Trump has made it a top priority to root out violent TdA gang members. He proudly announced that, in the last 48 hours, ICE, in collaboration with local partners and federal agencies, has arrested over 68 gang members in the United States, bringing the total to 394 arrests. The objective is clear: to eradicate the TdA from U.S. soil and eliminate the threat they pose to the American public.

Historical Context of the Alien Enemies Act

The Alien Enemies Act of 1798, which allows for the deportation of individuals from enemy nations without a hearing, has been invoked on three occasions: during the War of 1812, World War I, and World War II. This historical precedent underscores the seriousness with which the United States is approaching the current situation with the Tren de Aragua gang.

Jimenez-Bracho's Criminal Background

According to officials, Jimenez-Bracho is a known human trafficker and smuggler, and his arrest is part of an ongoing investigation. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement provided details of the operation, stating that their Special Agents successfully led Bracho into the custody of FHP Troopers and other Task Force members.

Florida's Leadership in the Operation

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis commended the state's role in leading the way in this operation, emphasizing Florida's proactive stance in addressing the threat posed by the Tren de Aragua gang. This arrest signifies a crucial step in the broader effort to combat organized crime and protect the safety of the American public.