Canadian Man Dies in ICE Custody: Ottawa Demands Answers from U.S.

Published: June 29, 2025

A diplomatic storm is brewing between Canada and the United States as troubling new details emerge about dozens of Canadians detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) — including one who tragically died in custody.


According to Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand, approximately 55 Canadian citizens are currently being held in ICE detention centers across the United States. In an interview with CTV News on Friday, Anand reassured the public that Canadian consular officials are “actively working to ensure fair and humane treatment for every Canadian detained abroad.” 

But the situation took a devastating turn on June 23, when 49-year-old Johnny Noviello, a Canadian citizen, died while in ICE custody. Global Affairs Canada had been in contact with Noviello since his initial detention on May 15, but despite consular involvement, he never made it out alive.

Death Under Investigation

Details surrounding Noviello’s death remain scarce. Minister Anand cited privacy laws as the reason for withholding further information but confirmed that Ottawa is seeking urgent answers from U.S. authorities. ICE officials have stated that the cause of death is still under investigation.

Noviello’s case is complicated. He had legally entered the U.S. in 1988 and became a permanent resident three years later. However, in October 2023, he was convicted of racketeering and drug trafficking in Florida and sentenced to 12 months in prison. After serving his sentence, Noviello was arrested again by ICE agents in May 2025 at a probation office and taken into custody for removal under U.S. drug laws. His life ended just weeks later.

ICE Practices Under Fire

Johnny Noviello: Canadian consular officials press US for more details on citizen who died in ICE custody | CNN

The case has added fuel to growing criticism of ICE’s detention practices. Recent reports suggest that the agency has ramped up its arrest targets to 3,000 individuals per day, compared to only 650 per day earlier this year. This surge has triggered nationwide protests and calls for reform, with activists demanding greater oversight and transparency.

Human rights groups have long criticized ICE for harsh conditions in detention centers, lack of access to legal aid, and inadequate medical care. Noviello’s death is now seen as a tragic symbol of deeper systemic issues.

Canada Seeks Accountability

While Minister Anand expressed condolences to Noviello’s family, many Canadians are now asking tough questions: How safe are Canadian citizens when detained abroad? What more can Ottawa do to protect them?

This incident could mark a turning point in how Canada approaches bilateral discussions on immigration and detainee rights. It also raises broader concerns about the treatment of foreign nationals within U.S. borders.