ICE Launches Nationwide Operation Targeting Immigrants for SNAP Fraud: Cuban Woman Among Initial Arrests

The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has initiated a nationwide crackdown on immigrants accused of fraudulently obtaining benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. Among the first individuals apprehended is a Cuban national.

Identified as EPR, the woman is reportedly in the United States without legal status and was detained as part of this new sweep, according to federal authorities.

ICE confirmed the operation to Fox News, which reported on Tuesday that the arrests represent the initial phase of a sustained effort to identify foreign nationals allegedly accessing food assistance without meeting legal requirements.

Details on the Cuban Woman Detained

EPR is listed among the first individuals apprehended during the national operation. The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) described her as a Cuban citizen without legal immigration status in the country.

According to information provided by the department to Fox News, EPR had previously been convicted for disorderly conduct and had arrests related to assault and domestic violence.

Regarding the alleged food stamp fraud, authorities did not release information on what documents she might have used, how much money she received, or if specific criminal charges related to SNAP were filed. The arrest alone does not prove the commission of the alleged offense.

Additional Arrests: Haitian Nationals

In addition to the Cuban woman, authorities identified four Haitian citizens: Rubstony Junior Theodore, Wilbert Jean Baptiste, Louis Jean, and Jhensly Charles. According to the DHS, Theodore had a history of arrests for theft, obstructing police officers, and illegal entry onto private property. Information on the other three detainees' backgrounds was not provided in equivalent detail.

The authorities assert that these five individuals were detained as part of actions against the alleged fraudulent access to federally funded benefits. It remains unspecified whether their cases are interconnected or stem from independent investigations across different states.

"A Drop in the Ocean": DHS Plans More Operations

Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin defended the operation, emphasizing that immigrants without authorization to remain in the United States should not utilize federal programs for which they are ineligible. "These programs are for Americans only," he stated, although federal law allows access to SNAP for specific categories of eligible foreigners.

Mullin likened the initial federal actions to "a drop in the ocean," alluding to the broader scope the government intends for its investigations. DHS characterized the initial arrests as the onset of a large-scale and ongoing operation against the alleged misuse of food stamps.

This announcement comes within the context of the Trump administration's initiatives to investigate public program fraud and enhance immigration law enforcement.

Eligibility for SNAP: Cuban Nationals and More

Certain Cuban nationals can still legally receive SNAP benefits if they meet the applicable immigration requirements and the program's economic and administrative conditions.

Eligibility rules changed following the enactment of the federal law known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act in 2025, which narrowed the categories of eligible foreigners.

According to official guidance from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), eligible categories currently include legal permanent residents who meet waiting periods or exceptions, individuals classified as Cuban/Haitian Entrants, and certain citizens from countries with special agreements with the United States.

Understanding Cuban/Haitian Entrant Status

One notable exception is the Cuban/Haitian Entrant classification, established in federal law for specific individuals from Cuba and Haiti. This classification is used to determine eligibility for certain benefits and does not necessarily equate to an independent immigration status.

Individuals recognized under this classification may qualify for SNAP without having to meet the general five-year waiting period applicable to many permanent residents.

The USDA provides specific guidance on verifying Cuban and Haitian nationals through the federal SAVE system, used by agencies to confirm documentation and immigration classifications.

Navigating SNAP Eligibility with I-220A

The I-220A form, known as an Order of Release on Recognizance or an Order of Supervision, has raised numerous immigration-related questions among Cubans who entered the United States via the border.

Possessing an I-220A does not automatically grant permanent residency or guarantee SNAP eligibility. However, it does not inherently exclude a person either. Certain Cubans with this document may qualify under the special Cuban/Haitian Entrant classification, depending on their immigration status and the relevant verification.

An official SNAP eligibility guide from North Carolina, updated in February 2026, explicitly includes the I-220A among the documents that can be used to assess this classification for Cuban or Haitian nationals. It also considers certain pending asylum applications and ongoing immigration procedures.

This documentary criterion does not imply that all individuals with an I-220A are automatically eligible, nor does it replace the verifications required by the agency responsible for the program in Florida.

Impact on Other Immigration Categories

Federal provisions also introduced significant changes for other immigration categories: Asylum seekers and refugees: these classifications no longer independently confer SNAP eligibility under the new rules. However, a Cuban or Haitian might retain eligibility if they also meet another enabling classification, such as Cuban/Haitian Entrant.

Parole beneficiaries: parole alone no longer guarantees eligibility. Certain Cubans and Haitians may continue to qualify under the specific exception for both nationalities.

Permanent residents: may be eligible based on a five-year waiting period and applicable exceptions. Obtaining residency through the Cuban Adjustment Act does not eliminate the need to verify the relevant rules.

Individuals without an enabling immigration category: are not entitled to receive SNAP benefits for themselves, though other eligible family members may receive assistance.

North Carolina's official explanation of eligibility changes details how the reform restricted benefits for certain foreigners while preserving the exception for Cubans and Haitians under the special classification.

Steps for Cuban Recipients in Florida

Families currently receiving food stamps should pay close attention to official notifications, especially if asked to update immigration, economic, or family information.

The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) stipulates that applicants must meet state residency, income, identity, immigration status, and other program requirements.

If asked for a review, it's advisable to confirm the request originates from an official channel, carefully read deadlines, submit true and updated documentation, and keep copies of submitted responses.

Those with documents such as I-220A, I-94, work permits, or asylum application evidence may require an individualized assessment to determine eligibility classification.

Administrative reviews, eligibility changes, or documentation requests do not automatically imply a criminal investigation for fraud. If formally accused or contacted by immigration authorities, seeking specialized legal counsel is crucial.

This ICE operation is part of a broader campaign that could impact thousands of immigrants nationwide. Stay informed on all developments in our U.S. Immigration section.