Canada wants answers after 49-year-old Johnny Noviello died in U.S. custody in Florida on June 23. Toronto Star
The Canadian government is closely watching the case of a Canadian citizen, Johnny Noviello, who died while in the custody of U.S. immigration officials. Authorities in Canada have asked for more details and say they are treating the matter with urgency.
Johnny Noviello, 49, died on June 23 at 1:36 p.m. in Florida. Officials said Miami Fire Rescue declared him dead after efforts to revive him failed.
Found Unresponsive in Detention Center
Detention staff found Noviello unresponsive just before 1 p.m. Medical personnel immediately gave him CPR and used a defibrillator to try to save him. They also called emergency services for help.
Despite their quick response, he was declared dead around 40 minutes later. The exact reason for his death remains unknown. An investigation is now underway.
Canadian Government Responds
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand shared on social media that Canada had received word of Noviello’s death. She expressed condolences to his family and said officials are working to learn more from the U.S.
She added that no more information would be shared publicly for now to protect the family’s privacy.
Longtime U.S. Resident Facing Deportation
Noviello entered the United States on January 2, 1988, with a valid visa. In 1991, he became a lawful permanent resident.
Years later, his legal status came under threat after he broke U.S. drug laws. On May 15, 2025, immigration officers arrested him at a probation office in Florida. They said he was eligible for removal from the country because of past convictions.
Criminal Charges in Florida
In October 2023, a court in eastern Florida found Noviello guilty of racketeering and drug trafficking. He was sentenced to 12 months in jail.
Though he had completed part of his sentence, immigration authorities placed him in detention to begin the deportation process.
What Happens Next
The death of a Canadian citizen in a U.S. detention center has raised serious concerns. Canada now wants full answers from American officials.
The situation has drawn attention to how immigration enforcement works in the U.S., especially for people who have lived there for decades but are not citizens.
Canada has said it will keep pushing for more information while also offering support to the grieving family.
