Kenneth Genalo Acting Deputy Director | U.S. Immigration And Customs Enforcement
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Phoenix, in collaboration with the Drug Enforcement Administration, has arrested Hugo Leonel Soto-Moran in Apache Junction on February 24. Soto-Moran, a 38-year-old Guatemalan national illegally residing in the United States, is a known member of the Latin King gang and has federal convictions for possession of a firearm and racketeering.
"As a documented member of a violent street gang and an alien convicted of serious crimes, Soto-Moran demonstrated a blatant disregard for U.S. immigration laws and presented a significant danger to the residents of Arizona," stated John Cantu, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Phoenix Field Office Director. "ICE Phoenix will continue to prioritize the identification, targeting, and arrest of individuals that pose the greatest threat to public safety."
Soto-Moran entered the United States unlawfully at an unspecified date and location. His criminal record includes a conviction for possession of an unregistered firearm in February 2009 and conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise in August 2011. Both cases were tried before the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland.
Soto-Moran is currently held in ICE custody awaiting deportation from the United States.
The public can report crimes or suspicious activities by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing an online tip form.
Further information about ICE’s efforts to enhance public safety in Arizona communities can be found on X: @ERO__Phoenix.
