On May 7, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) San Diego apprehended Humberto Lopez, a 50-year-old Mexican national. Lopez was previously held at the San Diego County jail on charges of assault with a deadly weapon. Despite an active federal arrest warrant, he was released by the San Diego County Sheriff's office without notifying ICE, which had issued the warrant.
"This arrest exemplifies how SB 54 continues to foster an environment where local agencies hesitate to cooperate with federal immigration authorities, even when legally required," said ICE officials. The legislation is seen as compelling ICE to conduct operations in communities, increasing risks for officers as they pursue individuals in unpredictable and potentially unsafe situations rather than through secure custodial exchanges.
Lopez has a significant criminal record that includes convictions for assault with a deadly weapon, narcotics trafficking, robbery, and theft. After re-entering the U.S. illegally, he posed a danger to the community and continued violating U.S. laws. ERO San Diego served him with a notice of intent to reinstate his prior removal order. The U.S. Attorney’s Office accepted the case for prosecution, and Lopez will be handed over to U.S. Marshals' custody pending arraignment.
The public can report crimes and suspicious activities by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing an online tip form.
More information about ICE's mission to enhance public safety in San Diego can be found on X (formerly known as Twitter) at @EROSanDiego.
