Recent ICE Operations Lead to Arrest of 72 Illegal Aliens in Texas

Overview of the Operation

In a significant enforcement effort, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, in collaboration with federal, state, and local law enforcement, conducted a targeted operation in the Rio Grande Valley region from March 16 to 22. This initiative led to the arrest of 72 illegal aliens, including 61 criminal aliens and two documented gang members, all aimed at enhancing public safety, national security, and border security.

Focus on Criminal Aliens

The operation specifically targeted individuals charged or convicted of various criminal offenses while illegally residing in the United States. Among those arrested were individuals facing serious charges, highlighting the commitment to community safety through proactive law enforcement. The breakdown of criminal offenses included:

Violent Crimes

• Two individuals charged or convicted of aggravated felonies or violent offenses, including homicide, aggravated assault, or domestic violence.

Sexual Offenses

• Three individuals charged or convicted of sex crimes, including aggravated sexual assault of a minor and possession of child pornography.

Firearms Offenses

• One individual convicted for illegal firearms-related crimes, such as unlawful carrying of a firearm and aggravated assault with a firearm.

Drug-Related Offenses

• Eight individuals charged or convicted of illicit narcotics offenses, including drug trafficking and possession of controlled substances.

Property Crimes

• Four individuals charged with burglary or theft-related offenses.

Driving Under Influence

• Seven individuals had charges related to driving while intoxicated.

Alien Smuggling

• Seven individuals were involved in alien smuggling offenses as per 8 USC 1324.

Immigration Violations

• Fourteen individuals were charged under felony 8 USC 1326.
• Thirteen individuals were charged under 8 USC 1325.

Other Criminal Offenses

• Additional charges included one for fraud and one for soliciting prostitution.

Commitment to Community Safety

Robert Cerna, Acting Field Office Director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in Harlingen, emphasized the operation’s results as evidence of ICE’s unwavering commitment to public safety. "Our mission includes locating and removing at-large criminal aliens who pose a threat to our communities," he stated. The directive from ICE leadership underscores that no groups of removable aliens are exempt from enforcement actions.

Craig S. Larrabee, Special Agent in Charge of ICE Homeland Security Investigations in San Antonio, reiterated the significance of strong partnerships with various law enforcement agencies. "Our coordinated efforts are pivotal in ensuring these dangerous individuals are removed from our neighborhoods, thereby upholding the rule of law and safeguarding our citizens."

Reporting Crimes and Suspicious Activity

Members of the public are encouraged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities or crimes. The ICE agency has provided resources such as the online tip form and a dedicated hotline at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) for anonymous reporting.

Conclusion

The recent enforcement operation serves as a robust reminder of the continual efforts by ICE and its law enforcement partners to prioritize community safety through the identification and removal of criminal aliens. Such actions are vital for maintaining the rule of law and ensuring secure neighborhoods, fostering a safer environment for all residents. By staying informed and engaged, communities can play an essential role in contributing to public safety initiatives.