U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), in collaboration with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), conducted a routine enforcement operation in Sterling, Virginia, on February 19, resulting in the arrest of three individuals illegally present in the United States.
"These three fugitives were illegally present in the Northern Virginia area in violation of U.S. immigration laws," stated Russ Hott, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Washington, D.C. Field Office Director. "ICE Washington, D.C.'s mission is to ensure the safety and security of our District of Columbia and Virginia communities through the arrest and removal of those individuals who undermine the safety of our communities and the integrity of our laws. Those who flagrantly violate U.S. laws should expect to be arrested and removed."
The operation led to the apprehension of a 49-year-old Salvadoran national who had previously been deported to El Salvador in September 2003 but re-entered the United States unlawfully. A 34-year-old Honduran national was also detained; an immigration judge ordered his removal from the U.S. in November 2024. Additionally, a 36-year-old Salvadoran national was taken into custody after an immigration judge ordered his removal back in November 2006.
Members of the public are encouraged to report crimes and suspicious activities by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or by completing an online tip form.
For more information about ICE's efforts to enhance public safety, follow @EROWashington on X.
