Robert Santiesteban/Cuba/Felony Manufacture-Sell of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon

ICE New Orleans arrested Robert Santiesteban, a 41-year-old citizen of Cuba and illegal alien, on immigration violations following his involvement in serious criminal activities. Santiesteban has a criminal history that includes multiple convictions for felony drug offenses, specifically the manufacture and sale of controlled substances. He was also convicted for unlawful possession of a weapon, further endangering public safety. Additionally, Santiesteban was arrested for theft of services, a charge that relates to his unlawful use of services such as utilities or transportation without proper payment.

Santiesteban’s repeated violations of both criminal and immigration laws made him a priority for enforcement action. Following his arrest, ICE officers took him into custody, and he was placed in detention pending removal proceedings. His drug trafficking activities and illegal possession of a weapon are major contributing factors to his detention.

Given his criminal record and lack of legal status, Santiesteban will remain in ICE custody until the immigration court rules on his case. ICE officials confirmed that he is not eligible for bond due to his criminal convictions and risk to public safety. His case highlights ICE’s ongoing efforts to detain individuals who commit serious offenses while unlawfully residing in the U.S.