Tien Minh Cao/Vietnam/Kidnapping and Burglary

In May 2025, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) San Diego arrested Tien Minh Cao, a Vietnamese national with a long history of violent criminal offenses committed in San Diego County, California. Cao was taken into ICE custody following his release from state prison, where he served time for multiple felonies spanning more than a decade.

Cao’s criminal record includes convictions for spousal abuse, kidnapping, first-degree burglary, robbery, assault with a firearm, and violation of a protective order. These convictions stem from multiple incidents involving domestic violence and armed confrontations. In one case, Cao unlawfully entered a residence armed with a handgun and assaulted the occupant during a robbery attempt. He was later arrested and convicted after a multi-agency investigation.

Cao also violated court-issued protection orders and was charged with continued threats and physical abuse against individuals known to him. His history of violating legal boundaries and engaging in repeat violent conduct led to multiple sentencing terms, including extended incarceration.

Following the completion of his most recent prison term, ICE lodged an immigration detainer and took custody of Cao upon his release. He had no legal immigration status at the time of arrest and had previously been issued a removal order that is now being reinstated.

Cao is currently housed at an ICE detention facility in Southern California and remains in custody pending immigration proceedings. Federal authorities have begun the coordination process for his removal to Vietnam.