U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), in collaboration with the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office, has arrested a six-time deported MS-13 gang member from El Salvador. The arrest took place on February 24, shortly after he allegedly murdered a man in Plum Grove, Texas.
Luis Miguel Perez-Miranda, aged 34, was captured following a manhunt by authorities in Dayton, Texas. He is currently held at the Liberty County Jail.
ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Houston Field Office Director Bret Bradford commented on the operation: “Despite attempts by some to spread false information and rumors about the brave men and women who work for ICE, they continue to come in to work every day and put their own lives at risk to make our communities safer.” He added that without their efforts, this "dangerous MS-13 gang member" would still pose a threat to the community.
Chad Plantz, ICE Homeland Security Investigations Houston Special Agent in Charge, expressed relief over Perez-Miranda's capture: “The residents in Southeast Texas can rest easier knowing this dangerous transnational gang member has been removed from the community and is safely in custody.” He credited close cooperation with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners for the swift apprehension.
Perez-Miranda has illegally entered the U.S. multiple times. His most recent expulsion under Title 42 occurred in August 2021. He was previously removed to El Salvador on several occasions dating back to September 2009. His criminal record includes convictions for drug trafficking and illegal entry into the U.S.
For further updates on ICE's activities related to immigration law enforcement and combating transnational crime in Southeast Texas, follow @EROHouston and @HSIHouston on X.