Justo Betancourt’s Journey: From Detention to Freedom

Donald Trump extended a ‘welcome home’ message to Justo Betancourt, a resident of Miami originally from Cuba, who spent several months detained at a federal immigration facility in the Florida Everglades. Known as Alligator Alcatraz, Betancourt’s release was celebrated by many, including his daughter, Arianne.

‘Welcome home to Justo Betancourt, whose daughter, Arianne, worked tirelessly to free her father from Alligator Alcatraz. Enjoy your freedom together,’ Trump shared on TruthSocial.

Betancourt’s Detention and Release

Betancourt had been a U.S. resident for decades before his detention for over six months. He was taken into custody during a standard immigration check-in, according to court records. On May 14, a federal judge ordered his release from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody, as his legal team argued he was wrongfully detained. This led to a habeas corpus ruling compelling federal authorities to free him.

Arianne Betancourt played a vital role in securing her father’s release, advocating for him both publicly and privately while he remained in custody.

Background on Justo Betancourt

After his arrival in the U.S. in 1990, Betancourt obtained lawful residency. However, an immigration judge ordered his removal in 2020 following convictions related to drug distribution, according to court documents from May 13. As a Cuban national, immediate deportation proved complicated, leading authorities to release him under supervision with mandatory check-ins.

He was re-detained on October 29, 2025, during one of these check-ins. In January 2026, authorities tried to deport him to Mexico, but entry was denied due to his ‘medical and mental health issues,’ as documented in court papers.