E. Martin Estrada, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California
Federal prosecutors in the Central District of California have recently charged 45 individuals with illegal re-entry into the United States after removal. This brings the total number of such prosecutions to 347 since January 20, representing a significant increase from just nine cases in the prior year. These individuals were previously convicted of felonies prior to their removal from the United States, with offenses including attempted burglary and forgery.
The seven-county Central District, which includes Los Angeles, has seen a marked change in its approach to these cases following a change in administration. United States Attorney Bill Essayli stated, "The government has a duty to protect its citizens," noting a prior lack of prosecutions for illegal re-entry cases which, according to him, has now been reversed.
United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Todd M. Lyons remarked on the increase, highlighting that since January 20, 347 illegal aliens have been prosecuted for re-entering the U.S. after removal. Last year, only nine such prosecutions were reported. Lyons emphasized the importance of collaboration between various agencies, including ICE, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the FBI, in ensuring public safety.
Illegal re-entry after removal can result in up to two years in prison, with higher penalties for those previously convicted of felonies or aggravated felonies. Maximum sentences can reach 10 or even 20 years in federal prison for aggravated cases.
Recent cases highlight individual prosecutions. Paulino González-García, 26, and Ricardo Cruz-García, 31, both Mexican nationals, face charges related to illegal re-entry and previous felony convictions. José Rosales Ramírez, 27, also from Mexico, has been charged with being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christina A. Marquez of the Domestic Security and Immigration Crimes Section.
These prosecutions form part of Operation Take Back America, an initiative by the Department of Justice targeting illegal immigration, transnational criminal organizations, and violent crime. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, along with Homeland Security Investigations, are investigating these matters. As with all criminal complaints, the individuals charged are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
