Louisiana judge frees four immigrants convicted of crimes from ICE custody

Release of Undocumented Immigrants Raises Concerns

Earlier this month, a federal judge in Louisiana decided to release four undocumented immigrants from custody, individuals who had extensive criminal records, including serious offenses like murder and child sexual exploitation.

On February 6, the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that Judge John DeGravels, who was appointed by President Obama, sanctioned the release of these defendants from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody.

Tricia McLaughlin, the assistant secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, expressed her outrage, stating, “The only effect will be the continued rape, murder, assault, and robbery of many more American victims. Releasing these monsters is inexcusably reckless. President Trump and Secretary Noem are now enforcing the law and arresting illegal aliens who have no right to be in our country.”

The four individuals released include Ibrahim Ali Mohamed, originally from Ethiopia, who has a conviction for the sexual exploitation of minors. He received a final order of removal from an immigration judge on September 5, 2024.

It’s worth noting that he was released under the Biden administration.

Luis Gaston Sanchez, a Cuban national, was convicted of multiple charges, including murder, assault, and robbery. He was issued a deportation order back on September 24, 2001.

Another Cuban, Ricardo Blanco Chomato, has a record that includes murder, kidnapping, and drug sales, facing deportation since March 27, 2002.

Lastly, Francisco Rodriguez Romero has been convicted of murder and weapons charges, with a deportation order from May 30, 1995.

In September 2025, the DHS announced a collaboration with Louisiana officials to increase ICE detention capacity at the Louisiana State Penitentiary, also known as Angola Prison, which currently houses various undocumented immigrants apprehended by ICE.