U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), with the assistance of various law enforcement entities, conducted a targeted enforcement operation in the Rio Grande Valley, resulting in the arrest of 72 illegal aliens, including 61 criminal aliens and two documented gang members. This operation occurred from March 16 to 22, aiming to enhance public safety, national security, and border security.
The arrests involved individuals charged or convicted of criminal offenses while illegally in the U.S., covering a range of serious crimes. Among those detained were individuals involved in aggravated felonies, violent offenses like homicide, aggravated assault, and domestic violence, as well as sex offenses, including aggravated sexual assault of a minor and possession of child pornography.
The operation also led to the arrest of one individual convicted of illegal firearms offenses and several others charged for narcotics-related crimes, including drug trafficking. Other offenses included burglary, theft, driving while intoxicated, alien smuggling, and fraudulent activities.
“The results of this operation are a clear indication of ICE’s commitment regarding the role we play in keeping our communities safe by locating, arresting, and ultimately removing at-large criminal aliens who pose a threat to public safety, and other immigration fugitives,” stated Robert Cerna, acting Field Office Director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in Harlingen. He reiterated that ICE’s leadership is clear about not exempting any classes or categories of removable aliens from potential enforcement.
“ICE assisted in the arrest of criminal aliens with extensive criminal histories, including offenses such as child sex crimes, drug trafficking, weapons trafficking, and other serious violations,” mentioned ICE Homeland Security Investigations San Antonio Special Agent in Charge, Craig S. Larrabee. He emphasized the importance of strong partnerships with law enforcement agencies and the coordinated efforts to uphold the rule of law and safeguard citizens.
The public is encouraged to report crimes and suspicious activities by contacting the provided hotline number or completing an online tip form.
