ICE Arrests Criminal Immigrants Amid Sanctuary Pushback
On Tuesday, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents captured several undocumented immigrants previously convicted of serious offenses, as stated in a press release from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This action reportedly took place despite the ongoing opposition from politicians advocating for sanctuary policies.
DHS emphasized that they remain committed to targeting what they refer to as the “worst of the worst” criminals. The press release highlighted five cases, including individuals with records related to child abuse and sexual assault.
“Even with the negative rhetoric from sanctuary proponents, ICE officers are actively apprehending those who pose a significant threat,” said Lauren Biss, Acting Assistant Secretary of DHS. She mentioned that almost 70 percent of those arrested by ICE have faced criminal charges or convictions in the U.S.
One such arrest involved Elipidia Aguirre Romero, a Mexican national who had been convicted of child abuse leading to severe injury or even death in Fresno, California.
Another individual, Jose Alfredo Patino Avelino, also from Mexico, was detained for convictions of sexual assault and assault with the intent to commit rape, occurring in Santa Barbara, California.
Saul Alberto Garay-Amaya, an undocumented immigrant from El Salvador, was arrested too. His charges included sexual penetration of an animal by force, along with other serious offenses like strangulation and kidnapping, which stemmed from a comprehensive investigation by the Vienna police.
Fidel Laretta Bortor, another Mexican citizen, faced arrest due to his previous conviction for heroin trafficking in Forsyth County, North Carolina.
DHS also called attention to Eison Beltrán Avila, an illegal immigrant from Colombia, who had been convicted of robbery in Queens, New York.
“Once again, despite adversities from some political figures, ICE remains focused on apprehending individuals who have demonstrated a clear disregard for the law and community safety,” Biss added. “We are dedicated to making communities safer and encourage public engagement.”
