Importance Score: 65 / 100 🔴
A deported migrant TikToker, notorious for urging fellow illegal immigrants to squat in US homes, is facing serious repercussions in Venezuela. Upon his return to the Maduro government’s control, Leonel Moreno is charged with inciting hatred, stemming from his controversial “attitude in the US.”
Venezuelan Government Prosecutes Deported TikToker
Leonel Moreno, 28, faces prosecution in Venezuela for actions committed on social media that are deemed “crimes against Venezuelans.” Diosdado Cabello, Venezuela’s Minister of Interior, Justice, and Peace, announced the charges this week, highlighting the government’s firm stance against Moreno’s conduct while in the United States.
Social Media Provocations Lead to Charges
Moreno gained notoriety for his viral TikTok videos where he boasted about receiving cash benefits from the US government and encouraged other Venezuelan migrants to “invade abandoned houses.” His social media presence, intended to provoke and gain attention, has now resulted in legal action in his home country.
In his online content, Moreno reportedly flaunted $100 bills and openly discussed government assistance programs. He also drew criticism for involving his infant daughter, a US citizen, in his videos, claiming that her birth incurred no costs due to favorable policies.
Deportation and Passenger Discontent
Moreno’s deportation flight to Venezuela, under President Trump’s administration policies, was marked by significant tension. Fellow passengers on the flight expressed outrage at Moreno’s portrayal of Venezuelans on social media.
Due to the hostility from fellow deportees, additional security measures were necessary to isolate Moreno during the flight. This underscores the level of public animosity generated by his online behavior and perceived exploitation of the US immigration system.
Background and Legal History
Prior to his deportation, Moreno was apprehended in Gahanna, Ohio, in March 2024. He had illegally crossed the US border two years prior and failed to adhere to mandatory check-ins with immigration authorities (ICE).
An immigration judge issued a deportation order against Moreno in October of the previous year. However, at the time, Venezuela had suspended acceptance of deportation flights from the United States.
The resumption of these flights followed a brokered agreement between the Trump administration and Nicolás Maduro’s government in January, facilitating Moreno’s eventual return to Venezuela.
Allegations of Military Ties and Plea for Leniency
Federal authorities were reportedly investigating Moreno’s alleged past service as a sergeant within Venezuela’s general directorate of military intelligence. Moreno himself later testified that he held a lower-ranked position in the Venezuelan navy, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Speaking from an Ohio jail before his deportation, Moreno characterized himself as a victim of “persecution.” He argued that his reasons for seeking refuge in the United States were rooted in persecution in Venezuela, yet he felt similarly persecuted in the US.
Estranged Wife’s Condemnation
Veronica Torres, Moreno’s estranged wife, has publicly expressed regret and disapproval of her former husband’s actions in the United States. In a recent social media post, Torres lamented Moreno’s failure to capitalize on opportunities and be a responsible father, sharing images of him disembarking from the deportation flight.