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The Cuban boxer Damián Lescaille was arrested for possession of controlled substances without a valid prescription in the U.S.
Lescaille was arrested in Brando, Mississippi on August 25, 2025, at 9:36 p.m. and is facing two counts of possession of a controlled substance (categories III, IV, or V).
Lescaille was given a bail of $100,000 for the first charge and another of $20,000, according to the Brandon Sheriff's Office.
"It's a very tough blow, because this young man had everything ahead of him (...) Let's hope things get clarified and that he can emerge from this situation with the opportunity to resume his career," a source close to the boxer told Ebro.
The boxer, however, had not fought since October 2023 and was working as a truck driver.
Next Tuesday, Lescaille's lawyers will have more details about the charges against the native of Camagüey, who arrived in the U.S. in 2020.
In mid-August, Cuban boxer Billy Rodríguez, a Pan American medalist who left an official delegation in 2022, was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Miami.
Rodríguez, 28 years old, was on probation under migratory status I-220A while awaiting his court date to apply for political asylum in 2027.
His arrest has raised alarm among his family and sports community, who fear his possible deportation to Cuba, where they believe he would face reprisals for his defection.
Rodríguez fled from a Cuban delegation in Mexico after an international competition in August 2022, and crossed the border into the United States in search of freedom and new professional opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Arrest of Cuban Boxers in the U.S.
Why was the Cuban boxer Damián Lescaille arrested in the U.S.?
Damián Lescaille was arrested for possession of controlled substances without a valid prescription in the U.S. He was detained in Brandon, Mississippi, and faces two charges of possession of controlled substances, which could complicate his professional career as a boxer.
What is the immigration situation of Cuban boxers who defect?
Cuban boxers who defect often face delicate situations upon arriving in the U.S., such as in the case of Billy Rodríguez, who was detained by ICE while waiting for his appointment to apply for political asylum. The I-220A status allows migrants to remain in the U.S. while their application is processed, but it does not provide strong protection against deportation.
What risks do Cuban athletes face when being deported to Cuba?
Cuban athletes who are deported to Cuba may face retaliation from the Cuban government for having defected from official delegations. This includes potential detentions, employment restrictions, and social marginalization.
What impact does Damián Lescaille's arrest have on his boxing career?
The arrest of Damián Lescaille for possession of controlled substances places his professional career in a delicate situation, according to experts. Although he hadn't fought since 2023, this incident could impact his future in boxing if not resolved favorably.
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