U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo has announced the arrest of Wilmer Orlando Canelas-Najera, a 44-year-old citizen of Honduras. Canelas-Najera faces charges of illegal reentry into the United States and actions to prevent his departure. If convicted, he could face a maximum penalty of four years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Bonanno, who is prosecuting the case, explained that the events leading to the arrest began on April 1, 2025, when the U.S. Border Patrol Anti-Smuggling Unit conducted a surveillance operation near the Marriott Hotel in Amherst, New York. Agents checked the records of a pickup truck with Maryland license plates parked at the hotel, which was registered to "Canelas, Wilmer." This individual had previously been removed from the United States.
Two individuals were found near the truck, including one fitting Canelas' description. When the agents approached and inquired if one of them was named "Wilmer," Canelas confirmed his identity. However, upon recognizing the agents' authority, he yelled "Run!" leading to both individuals fleeing the scene in different directions. Although the second person was caught, Canelas initially eluded capture. He was later spotted in the hotel, where he evaded law enforcement again but was ultimately detained the following afternoon.
Canelas was previously ordered to be removed from the United States in 1997 but did not attend his immigration hearing. He was apprehended and removed in March 2017, and once more in September 2017.
The arrest of Canelas is part of Operation Take Back America, an initiative aiming to address illegal immigration and transnational criminal activities to safeguard communities.
Canelas appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and has been ordered to remain in custody.
The investigation and arrest were conducted by the U.S. Border Patrol under the leadership of Patrol Agent-in-Charge Martin B. Coombs. It is important to note that being charged with a crime is an accusation, and Canelas is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
