Why It Matters
A Milwaukee resident arrested on false charges of threatening President Donald Trump remains in deportation proceedings even after federal authorities acknowledged the accusation was baseless. The case raises questions about how immigration enforcement handles wrongful allegations and whether the government bears responsibility for the consequences of its errors.
What Happened
Ramón Morales Reyes, 54, was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement in May 2025 after the Department of Homeland Security accused him of writing letters threatening to assassinate the president. According to Wisconsin Examiner, the accusation was false. A man arrested for assaulting Morales Reyes in a separate incident wrote the threatening letters to frame him before trial testimony.
Morales Reyes, born in Mexico and a U.S. resident since 1986, worked as a dishwasher and had limited English proficiency. He could not read or write proficiently in Spanish. He was released from ICE custody on bond in June 2025, but deportation proceedings continue.
The Department of Homeland Security stated that Morales Reyes is no longer under investigation for the assassination threat. However, the agency has not retracted its accusations or removed former Secretary Kristi Noem’s press release announcing the arrest. DHS continues calling for his deportation.
His attorney, Mark Thomsen, is seeking $5 million in damages. A deportation hearing is expected in December.
By the Numbers
$5 million — damages sought by Morales Reyes’ attorney
May 2025 — month Morales Reyes was arrested by ICE
1986 — year Morales Reyes arrived in the United States
June 2025 — month he was released from ICE custody on bond
Zoom Out
Immigration enforcement agencies have faced scrutiny in recent years over detention practices and the accuracy of threat assessments. Cases involving wrongful arrest or misidentification can result in prolonged legal battles and civil liability, particularly when agencies fail to promptly correct public statements or reverse enforcement actions.
What’s Next
Morales Reyes’ deportation hearing is scheduled for December. The outcome will determine whether he remains in the United States or faces removal to Mexico after four decades of residence.