Fact Check: Johnny Noviello is the ninth person to die in ICE custody this year.

Fact Check: "Johnny Noviello is the ninth person to die in ICE custody this year."

What We Know

On June 26, 2025, Johnny Noviello, a 49-year-old Canadian citizen, was found unresponsive in an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in Miami, Florida. He was being held pending removal proceedings following a conviction for drug trafficking and racketeering in Florida. Medical staff attempted resuscitation but were unsuccessful, and the cause of death is currently under investigation (ICE, Washington Post). According to ICE data, Noviello's death marks the ninth fatality in ICE custody for the year 2025, with four of those deaths occurring in Florida facilities (The Guardian).

Analysis

The claim that Johnny Noviello is the ninth person to die in ICE custody this year is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The ICE statement confirms his death and indicates that comprehensive medical care is provided to detainees. However, the circumstances surrounding his death are under investigation, which raises questions about the adequacy of medical care provided in detention facilities (ICE, Washington Post).

The assertion that he is the ninth individual to die in custody this year is corroborated by reports from reputable news outlets, including The Guardian, which specifically states that Noviello's death brings the total to nine for 2025 (The Guardian). This aligns with ICE's own reporting of fatalities in custody, which has been a point of concern for advocacy groups and lawmakers who have called for greater transparency and accountability regarding detainee health and safety (ICE, Washington Post).

The reliability of the sources is high, as they include official statements from ICE and coverage from established news organizations. However, it is important to note that ICE has faced criticism in the past regarding its treatment of detainees, which may influence public perception of its statements (Washington Post).

Conclusion

Verdict: True. The claim that Johnny Noviello is the ninth person to die in ICE custody this year is accurate, supported by multiple credible sources, including official statements from ICE and reputable news reports. The ongoing investigation into his death further emphasizes the need for scrutiny regarding the conditions within ICE facilities.

Fact Check: Johnny Noviello is the ninth person to die in ICE custody this year.