Ramon Alexander Ruiz-Cepeda/Dominican Republic/Kidnapping, Drug Possession w/ Intent to Distribute, Larceny, Fraud

On July 16, 2025, ICE Boston officers arrested Ramon Alexander Ruiz-Cepeda, a 39-year-old citizen of the Dominican Republic, in Brandon, Vermont. Ruiz-Cepeda is illegally present in the United States and has a lengthy criminal history that includes convictions for kidnapping, two counts of dangerous drug possession with intent to distribute, larceny, fraud, and resisting arrest. He was taken into ICE custody without incident and is currently being held pending removal proceedings.

The combination of violent and drug-related offenses in Ruiz-Cepeda’s record—including kidnapping and narcotics trafficking—qualify as aggravated felonies under U.S. immigration law. These convictions result in mandatory detention and eliminate eligibility for nearly all forms of immigration relief. ICE identifies individuals with such backgrounds as high-priority targets due to the serious threat they pose to public safety.

While ICE has not released specifics about his method of entry into the U.S., Ruiz-Cepeda’s illegal status and repeat criminal behavior triggered enforcement action. He will remain in ICE custody as his case is reviewed by an immigration judge. Due to the severity and number of his convictions, he is expected to be ordered removed and deported to the Dominican Republic once legal proceedings conclude.