U.S. Border Patrol agents at the Tucson Station apprehended a Guatemalan national, Gerardo Suruy-Xiquin, a registered sex offender, near Sasabe, Arizona. The arrest occurred early Saturday morning after surveillance technology identified individuals suspected of entering the country illegally.
The group, consisting of five individuals, was intercepted by the agents around 1:30 a.m. In addition to Suruy-Xiquin, who is from Guatemala, three women and one man from Mexico were taken into custody. All were found to have entered the United States unlawfully.
During processing at the Tucson Coordination Center, it was confirmed that Suruy-Xiquin had been convicted in 2023 by the 12th Circuit Court of Florida on multiple counts of sexual battery by juvenile/victim under 12 years old. He had served a two-year jail sentence for these offenses. Suruy-Xiquin now faces charges for illegal reentry into the U.S. as outlined under 8 U.S.C. § 1326. The other individuals will face charges under 8 U.S.C. § 1325 for entry without inspection.
The U.S. Border Patrol emphasized its dedication to securing the border and maintaining community safety. "This arrest highlights our ongoing efforts to ensure individuals with a history of violent offenses are identified and held accountable," stated the agency.
For up-to-date news and events, follow the Chief of Tucson Sector on X at @USBPChiefTCA and U.S. Customs and Border Protection at @CBPArizona.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection serves as the largest law enforcement organization in the nation and the first unified border management agency globally, with over 65,000 personnel. It plays a critical role in facilitating lawful travel and trade while enhancing national security.
