A federal grand jury has indicted Herminio Lopez-Gervacio, a 50-year-old citizen of Mexico, for allegedly returning illegally to the United States, possession of a fraudulent document, and aggravated identity theft. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania made this announcement following the indictment on April 23, 2025. Lopez-Gervacio was reportedly residing illegally in Loganton, Pennsylvania.
Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus provided details that Lopez-Gervacio was encountered in Clinton County on or about February 17, 2025. The indictment alleges he was removed from the U.S. on May 5, 2011, through El Paso, Texas, and subsequently returned without obtaining legal permission.
The investigation was conducted by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Robin Zenzinger prosecuting the case.
The charges are part of "Operation Take Back America," an initiative of the Department of Justice aiming to address illegal immigration, dismantle cartels, and transnational criminal organizations, and enhance community safety. This initiative integrates resources from the Department's Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Under federal law, the charge of aggravated identity theft carries a mandatory minimum penalty of two years in prison and a fine. Sentences can also include supervised release post-imprisonment, contingent upon federal sentencing statutes and guidelines.
It is important to note that indictments are only allegations. Individuals charged are considered innocent until proven guilty in court.
