Instagram influencer with over 1 million followers, ICE arrests influencer Farzad ‘Tony’ Toutouni in Los Angeles due to immigration violations and past criminal history.
Background and Arrest of the Iranian Instagram Star
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced on the 9th that it arrested 33-year-old Iranian national Farzad ‘Tony’ Toutouni on the 27th of last month. Toutouni gained fame on social media by posting pictures of luxury sports cars, private jets, and women.
According to ICE, Toutouni entered the United States legally in 1983 but received a deportation order from an immigration court in 1993. Although that deportation was not immediately executed, another order was issued in 1999, leading to his deportation to Mexico.
Illegal Re-entry and Extensive Criminal Record
However, ICE reports that Toutouni illegally re-entered the U.S. in 2011 by crossing the St. Clair River in Michigan on an electric raft purchased in Canada.
ICE stated that Toutouni has been involved in various crimes since 1989, with previous arrests for criminal threats, conspiracy, and drug possession and distribution. Authorities also noted convictions carrying over 16 months in prison for check fraud, credit card theft, document forgery, kidnapping, robbery, and extortion.
Current Status and Deportation Proceedings
Toutouni amassed over 1 million followers by frequently posting images featuring high-end automobiles, luxury aircraft, and scantily clad women on Instagram. ICE has referred to him as the ‘Instagram King of Iran.’
According to ICE, Toutouni is currently in custody and will remain detained while deportation proceedings move forward.
