A Bahamian national with prior convictions for human trafficking faces renewed federal charges after United States authorities intercepted a vessel he was operating with 14 undocumented migrants off the coast of Florida. Theron Don Mills, recently released from prison for similar offenses, led law enforcement on a maritime pursuit before tactical officers disabled his boat using precision fire.
The incident unfolded on March 11 when radar systems detected a 25-foot twin outboard vessel approximately 21 miles east of Miami-Dade County. United States Department of Homeland Security agents reported the craft was traveling westward without navigational lights and appeared significantly overloaded. Despite verbal commands and warning shots, Mills allegedly attempted to evade capture before authorities disabled the engines with targeted rounds.
Boardings teams detained fifteen individuals including nationals from Haiti, Ecuador, and the Dominican Republic. Immigration verification confirmed none possessed legal authorization for U.S. entry. Mills was found possessing $4,900 in U.S. currency and $1,000 in Bahamian funds.
Court documents reveal Mills’ extensive criminal history, including a 2021 conviction for human smuggling that resulted in a five-year prison term and three years supervised release. Following his previous sentence completion, he was formally removed to The Bahamas on January 8, 2026. During interrogation, Mills acknowledged operating the vessel, recognizing pursuing officers, and attempting flight. He additionally confirmed understanding his prohibited re-entry status.
Federal prosecutors have charged Mills with illegal re-entry and inducing unauthorized immigration. Three other individuals—Oswaldo Sisa Heredia, Palo Alvarez Rodriguez, and Joel Perez Matos—face related charges, all having been previously deported following convictions for immigration and drug offenses.
Mills has invoked his right to legal counsel and remains in custody pending pretrial proceedings scheduled for later this month, where he will formally enter a plea.