Leonel Moreno, a 27-year-old Venezuelan influencer, has been deported from the United States following a lengthy investigation into his provocative online behavior. Known for encouraging undocumented migrants to squat in unoccupied homes and exploit the U.S. welfare system, Moreno’s actions sparked public outrage and drew the attention of immigration authorities. Despite initially evading capture, he was arrested in March 2024 and deported shortly after a protracted legal process.
Rise to Infamy Through Social Media
Moreno gained widespread attention on TikTok, amassing over 500,000 followers by sharing videos that promoted illegal activities, including squatting in empty homes and misusing social benefits. In one video, he blatantly suggested that if a house was vacant, it could be “seized” under squatter’s rights, a misleading claim that quickly gained traction. In another disturbing clip, he brandished firearms while asserting his supposed rights as a U.S. citizen, despite having no legal status in the country.
His videos, which often showcased a lavish lifestyle funded by welfare benefits, led many to believe that Moreno was a legitimate U.S. resident. His posts, filled with defiance toward U.S. laws, painted a false picture of migrant success in America. These inflammatory statements soon prompted backlash from both the public and social media platforms. TikTok quickly took action, removing his content for violating its policies on promoting criminal activity.
From Border Crossing to Fugitive Status
Moreno’s journey to the U.S. began in 2022, when he and his wife crossed the border at Eagle Pass, Texas, entering the country without proper documentation. Initially placed in the Alternatives to Detention program, which allowed him to remain free while awaiting court hearings, Moreno skipped his scheduled court appearance in Miami, disappearing from the system. His subsequent fugitive status made him a target for law enforcement, yet his online presence kept him in the spotlight.
By the time ICE agents located him in Columbus, Ohio, in March 2024, Moreno had become notorious for his online antics. While flaunting wealth and a carefree attitude, he claimed he couldn’t afford legal counsel, despite living lavishly on social media. The irony of his financial situation only added to his growing list of legal troubles.
Detention, Legal Struggles, and Deportation
After his arrest in 2024, Moreno was placed in federal custody at Geauga County Jail, facing charges related to violating probation terms. His legal battles were delayed for months, and a repatriation order was issued in October 2024. However, Moreno’s deportation was postponed due to Venezuela temporarily halting the acceptance of deportation flights. Once the country resumed accepting deportees, the U.S. government arranged for his flight back to Venezuela.
In the months leading up to his deportation, Moreno recorded a video from his prison cell, addressing his followers. He claimed that he had been unjustly treated and that his actions had been misrepresented by the media. He insisted that he was a “good father” and a “good person,” despite the evidence of his illegal activities and the harm caused by his behavior.
Family Divided, Public Backlash
Moreno’s deportation was met with mixed reactions. While some supported his claim that he was a victim of persecution, others, including his wife, publicly denounced him. Initially, she had claimed to be unaware of his whereabouts, but later she accused him of manipulating her into participating in his online videos. She now intends to raise their children away from his influence, distancing herself from the man who had gained notoriety through his controversial actions.
During his deportation flight, tensions rose among fellow passengers, many of whom expressed their disdain for Moreno, accusing him of tarnishing the reputation of Venezuelans living in the U.S. The situation became so heated that he was moved to a high-security area of the plane. Upon arrival in Venezuela, Moreno appeared unfazed, even smiling and giving a thumbs-up.
Immigration Crackdown and the Broader Impact
Moreno’s case highlights the intensifying focus on illegal immigration under President Trump’s renewed enforcement policies. Deportations have surged under the administration, with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reporting a significant increase in detentions and arrests. While Trump’s government targets the “worst offenders,” many individuals, like Moreno, have been detained for relatively minor violations, such as failing to appear for court hearings.
Moreno’s deportation serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of misinformation and the role social media plays in shaping public perceptions. His promotion of illegal behavior and false claims about his citizenship put a negative spotlight on Venezuelan migrants, many of whom are fleeing violence and political instability.
The long-term consequences of his actions are evident in the broader discourse surrounding immigration. His case has sparked debates about the responsibilities of influencers and the power of social media to incite harmful behavior. Although Moreno may be out of the U.S., his controversial legacy will likely continue to shape conversations around migration and digital influence for years to come.
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