El Paso Standard

A Honduran national, Eswin Mejia, has been extradited to the United States after being arrested in connection with a 2016 motor vehicle homicide case in Douglas County, Nebraska. The arrest and extradition took place on March 21 following a comprehensive investigation led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and its partners.

In January 2016, Mejia was involved in a car crash that resulted in the death of a 21-year-old woman. His blood alcohol content at the time was reported to be three times over the legal limit. Despite these charges, Mejia was granted bond on February 5, 2016, but subsequently fled to Honduras to avoid prosecution.

"The extradition and arrest of this criminal alien is the culmination of a nearly decade-long battle for justice for Sarah Root and her family," stated Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. She credited Homeland Security Investigation and interagency law enforcement partners for ensuring that Mejia will face justice. "Sarah should still be here today," she added.

Senator Joni Ernst from Iowa expressed her satisfaction with the outcome: "For over nine years, I have called for justice on behalf of Sarah Root." She acknowledged President Trump's administration for their role in bringing about this resolution.

Mark Zito, Special Agent in Charge at ICE Homeland Security Investigations Kansas City, emphasized the importance of this arrest as part of their ongoing efforts to pursue fugitives and criminal aliens: "No matter how much time has passed or where they try to flee, ICE is working to bring them to justice."

Scott Kracl, U.S. Marshal for the District of Nebraska, extended his gratitude towards all agencies involved: "I hope this arrest and extradition brings some measure of comfort to the Root family."

Mejia had been previously encountered by immigration officials in May 2013 after entering the United States without inspection or parole. An immigration judge ordered his removal from the U.S. in April 2016 after he failed to attend his immigration proceedings.

The capture was achieved through collaboration among multiple agencies including ICE HSI-led joint investigation teams, U.S. Marshals Service, FBI, Department of State along with several Honduran law enforcement units.

Currently held at Douglas County Corrections under local custody with an immigration detainer lodged against him by ICE; members of public are encouraged to report any crimes or suspicious activities via ICE Tip Line or online tip form.