Former Cuban Judge Arrested for Concealing Communist Ties in Miami

Juana Orquídea Acanda Rodríguez, a 62-year-old former Cuban judge, is facing deportation after being detained by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) upon her arrival at Miami International Airport on March 20. She entered the U.S. on an immigrant visa sponsored by her son but failed to disclose her active membership in the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC) and her over 30 years of service in Cuba's judicial system. This has sparked outrage within the Cuban exile community, particularly given that she was honored in December 2023 for her loyalty to the revolution. CBP reports that Acanda Rodríguez provided false information during her immigration process, leading to federal charges of fraud and misrepresentation. Her case reflects a growing trend of former Cuban regime officials attempting to immigrate to the U.S. without disclosing their past affiliations. Acanda Rodríguez's situation raises concerns about the effectiveness of immigration controls regarding individuals linked to oppressive regimes.