El Paso Standard

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Phoenix, along with partners from the Drug Enforcement Administration, have apprehended Hugo Leonel Soto-Moran, a 38-year-old Guatemalan national. The arrest took place on February 24 in Apache Junction, Arizona. Soto-Moran is identified as an illegal immigrant and a validated member of the Latin King gang. He has previous federal convictions for firearm possession and racketeering.

"As a documented member of a violent street gang and an alien convicted of serious crimes, Soto-Moran demonstrated a blatant disregard for U.S. immigration laws and presented a significant danger to the residents of Arizona," stated John Cantu, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Phoenix Field Office Director. "ICE Phoenix will continue to prioritize the identification, targeting, and arrest of individuals that pose the greatest threat to public safety."

Soto-Moran entered the United States unlawfully at an unspecified date and location. His criminal record includes a conviction in February 2009 for possession of an unregistered firearm and another in August 2011 for conspiracy to participate in racketeering activities. Both cases were handled by the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland.

Currently, Soto-Moran is held in ICE custody awaiting removal from the United States.

The public is encouraged to report any crimes or suspicious activities by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or using the online tip form.

Further information about ICE’s efforts to enhance public safety in Arizona can be found on X: @ERO__Phoenix.