Teen Illegal Immigrant Dies in Florida Jail

A 19-year-old Mexican national died in custody at the Glades County Detention Center in Florida, federal authorities confirmed Wednesday.

Royer Perez-Jimenez was found unresponsive in his cell at approximately 2:34 a.m. on March 16, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Detention officers immediately initiated CPR and called for emergency medical services.

Two medical personnel arrived within minutes, determined Perez-Jimenez had no pulse, and continued resuscitation efforts. Moore Haven Fire Rescue EMS arrived at 2:42 a.m. and attempted life-saving interventions, but Perez-Jimenez was pronounced dead at 2:51 a.m.

ICE officials stated the death appears to be a suicide, though the official cause remains under investigation. Perez-Jimenez had been in ICE custody since February 21 after being transferred from the Volusia County Jail.

He was arrested January 21 by Edgewater Police Department on charges of fraud for impersonation and misdemeanor resisting an officer. At intake to ICE custody, medical staff evaluated him and he denied any behavioral health issues or suicidal thoughts.

Perez-Jimenez had initially entered the United States on February 19, 2022, when he was encountered by U.S. Border Patrol and voluntarily returned to Mexico the same day. He subsequently reentered the country illegally, which constitutes a federal felony.

ICE has notified the Department of Homeland Security, DHS Office of Inspector General, and ICE Office of Professional Responsibility. The Mexico consulate has been informed per international requirements, and next of kin have been notified.