Released Despite Final Removal Order: ICE Suspect Charged with Gruesome Beheading in Dallas

Released Despite Final Removal Order: ICE Suspect Charged with Gruesome Beheading in Dallas

In a case that has ignited outrage, Yordanis Cobos-Martinez, a Cuban national, was arrested in Dallas and charged with capital murder after allegedly beheading his motel manager, Chandra Nagamallaiah. The attack, which reportedly involved a machete and was witnessed by Nagamallaiah’s spouse and child, has raised serious questions about immigration enforcement policies.

Cobos-Martinez had been issued a final order of removal to Cuba, but authorities say Cuba refused to accept him due to his criminal record. As a result, he was released under an ICE Order of Supervision on January 13, 2025. Critics argue this release was unsafe and preventable.

His criminal history includes gang-related activity, carjacking, false imprisonment, theft, assault, and accusations of child sex abuse. ICE has lodged a detainer, and Cobos-Martinez remains held without bond at the Dallas County Jail.

Authorities say the dispute that triggered the violence began over a broken washing machine and a language barrier — Nagamallaiah reportedly asked someone else to translate instead of directly speaking with Cobos-Martinez in Spanish. Surveillance footage allegedly shows Cobos-Martinez leaving the room, retrieving a machete, and chasing Nagamallaiah to the motel’s office.

This horrifying event has prompted renewed debate over how dangerous individuals with outstanding removal orders are handled, especially when diplomatic or repatriation obstacles interfere. Many are calling for stricter oversight and reforms to ensure public safety and accountability.