Three individuals have been indicted by a federal grand jury in the Western District of Louisiana for illegal re-entry into the United States and other charges. Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced the cases.
Ariel Mauricio Zelaya-Pineda, also known as Carlos Antonio Pineda Ramos, 39, from Honduras, faces one count of re-entry of a removed alien. "The indictment returned by the grand jury alleges that Zelaya-Pineda was found in Bossier Parish, Louisiana," having been removed from the U.S. six times before without obtaining permission to reapply for admission. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Homeland Security Investigations and Bossier City Police Department are investigating this case, prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robin McCoy.
Homero Arroyo-Ayala, 47, from Mexico, is charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm related to drug trafficking offenses among others. The indictment claims that on November 27, 2024, Arroyo-Ayala possessed over 500 grams of methamphetamine and a "ghost gun" in Bossier Parish after being previously removed from the U.S. He faces potential life imprisonment if convicted. This case is investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and Louisiana State Police and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William Gaskins.
Erik Alexis Valladares-Corea or Eric A. Valladares, 23, from Honduras is charged with illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition as well as illegal re-entry into the U.S. The indictment alleges he was found with a Beretta Model 950B .22 caliber pistol after being deported on May 29, 2020. Valladares could face up to 15 years in prison if convicted. His case is also handled by Homeland Security Investigations and Louisiana State Police under prosecution by Assistant U.S. Attorney William Gaskins.
"An indictment is merely an accusation," noted officials; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
