Who is Jeson Nelon Presilla Flores?

Jeson Nelon Presilla Flores is a suspect charged in a major jewelry heist, who was later deported to South America.

What was the 2022 armored truck heist?

The 2022 heist involved suspects stalking an armored truck and stealing millions in diamonds, emeralds, gold, and watches.

Why were prosecutors upset about Flores' deportation?

Prosecutors were upset because Flores was deported before he could be tried for his alleged role in the heist.

Home / Crime and Justice / Jewel Heist Suspect Self-Deports Before Trial

Jewel Heist Suspect Self-Deports Before Trial

22 Jan

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Summary

Suspect deported to South America in December.
Alleged involvement in $100m jewelry heist.
Prosecutors unaware of immigration proceedings.

Jewel Heist Suspect Self-Deports Before Trial

Federal immigration authorities permitted Jeson Nelon Presilla Flores to self-deport to South America in December, stunning prosecutors who intended to try him for his alleged role in a colossal $100 million jewelry heist. This event, believed to be the largest in US history, involved an armored truck being ambushed in 2022.

Flores, facing up to 15 years for conspiracy and theft charges, pleaded not guilty. Despite being a lawful permanent resident on bail, he was taken into ICE custody in September. Prosecutors claim they were unaware of an immigration detainer, a fact his defense argues violated his rights.

During a December 16 immigration hearing, Flores opted for voluntary departure to Chile. Though his application was denied, a judge issued a final order of removal, and he was sent to Ecuador. This series of events is considered highly unusual, especially in a case of this magnitude.