Julián V.: Costa Rican TikTok star handed to ICE over expired license
Costa Rican content creator Julián Valverde was detained after a traffic stop for an expired license led to him being turned over to ICE. A judge set bail at $250, and he has since been released, thanking family and supporters.
Sep 17, 2025Orlando, FLCountry of origin: Costa Rica

Costa Rican content creator Julián Valverde, known online as Julián Valjota, has been released after being detained by the Polk County Sheriff's Office for driving with an expired license, an incident that led to him being turned over to ICE. A Florida state judge set bail at $250, and Valverde confirmed he regained his freedom and will be able to remain in the United States for now. In an emotional video posted to social media, he thanked family, friends and strangers who supported him during his detention, including reuniting with his sister, and said the experience taught him a lesson about responsibility.
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Sources
- Costa Rican TikTok Star Julián Valverde in ICE Custody in Florida
Federal Character·Sep 19, 2026·archived copy
- Costa Rican Influencer Julián Valverde Released by ICE Without Bond
The Tico Times·Sep 21, 2026·archived copy
- Costarricense Julián Valverde permanece detenido en Florida y bajo custodia de ICE: esto es lo que se sabe
Infobae·Sep 18, 2026
- Costa Rican content creator free on bail in Florida
Q Costa Rica·Sep 22, 2026
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