ICE Deports $100M Jewelry Heist Suspect, Stunning Federal Prosecutors
Federal immigration authorities allowed a suspect in the $100 million Brinks jewelry heist to self-deport to South America before his federal trial, upending prosecutors’ plans and angering victims. Jeson Nelon Presilla Flores, one of seven men charged in the 2022 theft of diamonds, emeralds, rubies, gold and luxury watches, was deported in late December 2025 after requesting voluntary departure during an immigration hearing, according to court filings.
Prosecutors had been preparing to seek up to 15 years in prison for Flores on charges including conspiracy to commit theft from interstate and foreign shipment. His deportation to Ecuador came as a surprise to both the U.S. Attorney’s Office and victims, who now have no trial and no conviction.
Flores had been a lawful permanent resident, released on bond before being taken into ICE custody in September 2025 without prosecutors’ knowledge, filings show. Prosecutors argue they were unaware of the immigration detainer and still want to pursue charges if he ever returns.
Defense attorneys filed a motion to dismiss the indictment, saying the deportation violated Flores’ criminal prosecution rights and warrants closure of the case. Federal prosecutors oppose that motion and asked a judge to dismiss charges “without prejudice,” keeping the door open for future prosecution.
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“When a defendant in a major federal theft case leaves the country before trial, victims are left without answers, without a verdict, and without closure,” attorney Jerry Kroll, representing impacted jewelry companies, told reporters.
The unusual sequence has raised questions about coordination between criminal and civil immigration processes, with former federal prosecutors saying the lack of communication was highly atypical.
Prosecutors now face a choice: keep the criminal case alive in hopes Flores returns or accept dismissal and forfeit any chance at trial. Jurors and victims are left waiting for clarity on how such a high-profile case unravelled.
Flores’ attorney is expected back in federal court next month to argue the motion, while federal prosecutors prepare their opposition. The next hearing could determine whether the case stays active or ends without resolution.
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