The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has initiated deportation proceedings against a suspected MS-13 gang member from El Salvador. This individual, Danny Granados-Garcia, was released into the U.S. a decade ago and had been classified as a “non-criminal” alien despite being wanted in his home country for the murder of a pastor.
Granados-Garcia was apprehended by the FBI last month and is currently detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as he faces deportation, according to reports. Acting Assistant Secretary of State Lauren Biss noted, “Thanks to ICE, an MS-13 gang member wanted for the murder of a pastor in his home country is off the streets of Connecticut.” She pointed out that this arrest exemplifies how someone can be deemed a “non-criminal” by the media, even if they have a serious criminal record abroad.
Biss further emphasized that many individuals classified this way pose a danger to public safety, stating that around 70% of ICE arrests involve illegal aliens with criminal charges or convictions in the U.S.
Granados-Garcia had been released by the Obama administration in 2016 after trying to enter the U.S. under the guise of being an unaccompanied minor, despite being too old for that classification. He was taken into custody on March 10 during a comprehensive enforcement operation in Waterbury, Connecticut.
The FBI acknowledged that Granados-Garcia was in the U.S. under an active Salvadoran arrest warrant for aggravated murder related to the pastor’s killing. Following his capture, he communicated his thoughts on a social media platform, which remains unspecified.
DHS confirmed that Granados-Garcia will remain in ICE custody until he can be deported back to El Salvador. As for the department’s current operations, despite some challenges resulting from a partial government shutdown and reforms that have been discussed, officials are committed to upholding the policies that align with President Donald Trump’s agenda to deport immigrants with criminal backgrounds.
Biss also stated recently that DHS will push forward with their mission to enhance public safety and apprehend individuals seen as threats to communities, regardless of the political climate or negotiations in Congress.
The ongoing government shutdown has raised concerns, especially regarding funding and the impact on agencies like FEMA and TSA. With the debate largely focused on the extent of funding for ICE operations, there remains some hesitation from Congressional Democrats without agreeing on specific reforms related to enforcement practices.
