Leonel Moreno, a Venezuelan influencer known for his controversial social media content, has been deported from the United States. Moreno, 26, gained notoriety for his videos encouraging illegal immigrants to occupy abandoned homes in America, claiming squatters' rights. His online antics, which included flashing cash and mocking U.S. taxpayers, sparked widespread outrage.
Moreno crossed the U.S. border illegally in April 2022 and was released under the border parole system. He failed to comply with check-ins with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), leading to his arrest in Ohio in March 2024. A federal judge ordered his deportation in September, but Venezuela initially refused to accept deportation flights. However, with the resumption of deportation flights under President Trump's administration, Moreno was returned to Venezuela.
During his time in the U.S., Moreno boasted about receiving government handouts and earning substantial income from his viral TikTok videos. His account, which amassed around 500,000 followers, was eventually shut down by TikTok. Moreno continued to post on other platforms until his arrest.
Upon his return to Venezuela, he caused a disturbance on the flight, requiring extra security measures.
Moreno, who claimed to be a victim of persecution, argued that the media misrepresented him. Despite his controversial actions, he described himself as a good father and husband.