Online Influencer Promoting Squatting Policies Deported Following Controversial Videos

Online Influencer Promoting Squatting Policies Deported Following Controversial Videos

The Trump administration recently made a significant move, deporting a Venezuelan individual who rose to fame on social media by sharing controversial videos. Leonel Moreno, a 26-year-old influencer, gained notoriety for his provocative messages that encouraged migrants to occupy American homes under the premise of squatters’ rights.

Moreno had amassed a substantial online following, which he leveraged to advocate for taking over properties across the United States. He brazenly announced his intention to establish a business centered around selling these homes for profit.

The administration confirmed his deportation through the @RapidResponse47 account on the platform X, stating, “He has been deported”. This swift action showcases the government’s response to individuals promoting policies seen as encouraging illegal activities.

Provocative Messaging and Controversial Behavior

Moreno’s alarming content on social media included mocking U.S. taxpayers and even fellow immigrants who adhere to legal employment practices. He often displayed stacks of cash, while simultaneously exhibiting emotional behaviors such as crying and singing. Often, videos depicted him holding a child with visible signs of illness, which drew both outrage and sympathy.

In one striking video, he declared, “I didn’t cross the Rio Grande to work like a slave,” suggesting that his purpose in coming to the U.S. was to claim his own piece of territory. This inflammatory rhetoric resonated with many viewers, contributing to his viral status.

Claims of Lucrative Earnings

Moreno’s accounts of financial success were staggering. He boasted about receiving government benefits, claiming his family received $350 weekly since entering the U.S. illegally. Moreover, he alleged that his viral TikTok videos at one point netted him as much as $1,000 each week.

One of his most famous quotes—”You’re hurt because I make more than you without much work while you work like slaves, understand?”—highlights the dismissive attitude he displayed toward hard-working citizens. His videos perpetuated the idea that he was living a lavish life at the expense of those laboring tirelessly.

The Downfall of His Online Presence

Despite the large following on TikTok, which reached around 500,000 users, the platform ultimately suspended his account due to community guideline violations. Moreno did not stop there; he continued sharing content on alternative platforms such as Facebook and Instagram until his arrest in Ohio last year.

After his online persona attracted scrutiny, Immigration and Customs Enforcement apprehended him. Moreno spent several months in detention while under the Biden administration, and his situation transformed as he faced deportation.

Legal Battles and Deportation Challenges

A federal judge had issued a removal order for Moreno back in September. However, complications arose due to the Venezuelan government’s refusal to accept flights for deportation under the current administration. This situation illustrates broader issues surrounding the challenges of deportation in cases involving individuals from certain countries.

Moreno had initially crossed the border into the United States illegally in 2022. He was granted temporary release under the border parole system after entering through Eagle Pass, Texas.

Broader Implications of His Case

The case of Leonel Moreno opens the door to discussions surrounding immigration policies and the responsibilities of influencers on social media. His actions and content not only encouraged illegal practices but also placed a spotlight on the delicate balance of immigration enforcement and the protection of legal systems.

As society grapples with the complexities of immigration, including the rights of migrants and U.S. citizens, Moreno’s case embodies the tension between advocacy and legality. Online platforms play a crucial role in shaping narratives and fostering both support and dissent, making the power of social media influencers a topic deserving of scrutiny.

The Aftermath of Deportation

The deportation of Moreno signals a hard-line approach from the administration toward those promoting illegal activities, particularly through social media. It raises questions about accountability and whether influencers can be held responsible for the ramifications of their content.

With immigration debates intensifying across the nation, Moreno’s story serves as a cautionary tale for those who might be tempted to exploit loopholes in the law. As authorities continue to crack down on illegal immigration and associated activities, the influential role of social media in this landscape cannot be overlooked. Public discourse must focus on practical solutions that address both the needs of immigrants and the legal frameworks in place to protect citizens.