The lawyer of Cuban pianist Andy García Palacios stated that agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) "were waiting for him" when he was arrested on August 15 at the Los Angeles International Airport.
In statements to Telemundo 51, the attorney provided details suggesting a planned operation rather than an accidental arrest.
García Palacios, aged 30 years, was heading to an event related to his professional career when he was intercepted at the airport.
After his arrest, he was transferred to the Processing Center for Advance, in California, where he remains in custody while awaiting the resolution of his immigration status.
His legal defender, Avelino González, argued that the musician entered the United States legally, has an active immigration process, and has no criminal record, which means he could be eligible for bail.
This version contrasts with the position of the U.S. Government: according to ICE, García Palacios was only authorized to remain in the country until May 27, 2024 and continued to reside there after that date, which is why he is facing a removal process.
The agency also issued a notice for him/her to appear before an immigration judge.
García Palacios' defense has not yet confirmed a date for the hearing before the immigration judge, whose decision will determine whether the musician can secure the bond that would allow him to be released from detention while he continues his legal proceedings.
Diana Fuentes, close to the musician, emphasized that "Andy has been living in the United States for three years and has no criminal record," a profile that his supporters believe is incompatible with the severity of the operation.
The news became public on Friday through the pianist's brother, Yandy García, and the Cuban comedian Carnota, who raised awareness of the case on social media.
Family members also organized a fundraising campaign on GoFundMe with a goal of 45,000 dollars to cover legal expenses; the day after the arrest was made public, the campaign had raised over 40,000 dollars with nearly 590 donors.
The case arises amid a surge in ICE arrests at U.S. airports, a tactic that includes intercepting individuals at check-in counters and boarding gates.
The arrests of Cubans by ICE increased by 463% between late 2024 and early 2026, according to data from the Cato Institute.
More than 42,000 Cubans have pending final deportation orders in U.S. territory, and since January 2025, more than 4,883 compatriots have been deported.
The Cuban percussionist Degnis Bofill, based in Miami and a Latin Grammy winner, was detained by agents of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) last Tuesday, as confirmed by his wife through a GoFundMe fundraising campaign that has already gathered over 154 donors.
Mara Delgado, who organized the campaign, described the situation with urgency: "Our number one priority is to get him released. In a situation like this, time is of the essence. Having proper legal assistance and being able to act quickly can make a huge difference."
Delgado described her husband as a pillar of the musical community in Miami and referred to his work as an educator and founder of the group Golpes Libres, asserting that he is one of the most prominent percussionists of his generation.
Filed under: