In a week-long operation from April 6 to April 12, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), along with other federal agencies, arrested 44 individuals living illegally in the United States. This targeted enforcement took place in Laredo, Texas, and nearby areas. The goal was to improve public safety, protect national security, and strengthen border control.
Among those arrested, 24 were identified as criminal offenders. One of them was a confirmed member of the Paisas gang, which is known for illegal activities. These arrests were part of ICE’s regular efforts to remove people who break immigration laws and pose a threat to communities.
Offenses Committed by Those Arrested
The individuals taken into custody were involved in various crimes. Some had already been convicted, while others were recently arrested for the following offenses:
- Four criminal aliens convicted of driving while intoxicated.
- One criminal alien convicted of theft.
- Six criminal aliens arrested for driving while intoxicated.
- Two criminal aliens convicted for evading arrest.
- Five criminal aliens arrested for assault.
- Four criminal aliens arrested for possession of marijuana.
- Three criminal aliens convicted for alien smuggling.
- Six criminal aliens convicted for illegal re-entry.
- One criminal alien arrested for sexual assault.
- One criminal alien convicted for sexual assault.
- One criminal alien convicted for possession of marijuana.
- One criminal alien arrested for resisting arrest.
- One criminal alien arrested for possession of a controlled substance.
- Two criminal aliens convicted for burglary.
- One criminal alien convicted for alien in possession of a firearm.
- One criminal alien arrested for tampering with evidence.
- One criminal alien was a documented Paisas gang member.
ICE Officials Explain the Importance of the Operation
Robert Cerna, Acting Field Office Director for ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations in Harlingen, Texas, said that ICE is serious about keeping communities safe. He mentioned that no group of illegal immigrants is exempt from enforcement anymore. The agency will continue carrying out similar operations across South Texas and the rest of the country.
Craig Larrabee, Special Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations in San Antonio, added that teamwork between different law enforcement agencies played a big role in the success of this mission. He also stressed the importance of protecting communities along the southern U.S. border.
What Happens to the Arrested Individuals?
The people arrested in this operation may face more criminal charges. Some will be sent back to their home countries, while others will remain in ICE custody as they go through immigration court hearings. Those who are found to be removable will be deported from the United States.
The people arrested in this operation may face more criminal charges. Some will be sent back to their home countries, while others will remain in ICE custody as they go through immigration court hearings. Those who are found to be removable will be deported from the United States.
This operation by ICE in Laredo, Texas, shows the strong efforts made to keep the public safe and secure. By arresting individuals with serious criminal backgrounds, the authorities aim to stop illegal activities and reduce risks in the community.
Operations like these are part of a bigger plan to maintain law and order, especially in areas close to the U.S.–Mexico border. With continued cooperation between different agencies, similar actions will take place regularly to target and remove those who break immigration laws and threaten public safety.
