Two Mexican nationals are facing deportation after being arrested aboard a U.S.-bound cruise ship for allegedly committing inappropriate acts involving a 14-year-old boy. One of the individuals has been confirmed to be HIV positive, raising additional public health concerns.

The incident occurred aboard the Independence of the Seas, a Royal Caribbean cruise ship that was returning to Miami last week. According to authorities, the two men — identified as 37-year-old Ricardo Daniel Mondragon Leal and 36-year-old Jose Prudencio Diaz — allegedly entered a sauna area on the ship and engaged in behavior deemed unlawful and inappropriate in the presence of a minor.

The boy, who was alone at the time, did not know the individuals. Law enforcement was contacted after he reported the encounter. Once the ship docked in Miami, federal authorities quickly detained the suspects. According to ICE, both men are in the United States unlawfully and have immigration detainers placed on them, signaling the Trump administration’s intent to deport them following legal proceedings.

One of the suspects, Jose Diaz, was also charged with failing to disclose his HIV-positive status — a felony in many jurisdictions when public safety is at risk.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem did not mince words in her response. “One of them has HIV. Both have ICE detainers on them. We will get these sick individuals out of our country,” Noem wrote on X. “This is a clear example of why secure borders and strong immigration enforcement matter.”

Both men were denied bond during their first court appearance. Prosecutors argued they pose a danger to the public and could reoffend. “They targeted a minor,” prosecutors stated. “This type of behavior is exactly what immigration law is meant to prevent.”

So far, neither man has a criminal record in the United States, but authorities have not confirmed whether they have previous charges in their home country of Mexico. Leal and Diaz face felony charges under Florida law, and the U.S. government has confirmed that deportation proceedings will be pursued upon conclusion of their cases.

This alarming incident underscores the very real dangers posed by lax immigration enforcement. While millions of lawful immigrants come to America seeking opportunity and a better life, a small but dangerous number take advantage of broken systems — putting vulnerable people at risk.

President Trump and Secretary Noem have pledged zero tolerance for such violations. The Department of Homeland Security under Trump has made clear that protecting American families is a top priority, and ICE has been directed to act swiftly and decisively.

There is a clear and pressing need for secure borders, responsible screening, and immediate action when laws are violated. This case is not just about immigration — it’s about public safety, law and order, and protecting the most vulnerable among us.

The message is simple: If you break U.S. laws — especially when it comes to harming others — you will be held accountable, and you will be removed.