Arrests
If you or any U.S. citizen is arrested in Cuba, ask the authorities to notify a consular officer at the U.S. Interests Section immediately. The American Citizen Services Unit is not routinely notified of the arrest of dual Cuban-American citizens so it is important that the family notify the Interests Section immediately in these cases.
The Interests Section cannot negotiate or secure a U.S. citizen’s release from jail (as U.S. citizens in Cuba are subject to the laws of Cuba), but the American Citizen Services Unit can help protect your legitimate interests and ensure that you are not discriminated against.
The American Citizen Services Unit can also provide a list of local attorneys, visit U.S. citizens in jail, and contact family members on the U.S. citizen’s behalf. We can also transfer money, food and clothing to prison authorities from relatives.