Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs | https://www.dhs.gov/
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has announced the arrest of Luis Bautista-Perez, a Mexican national wanted for aggravated homicide in Mexico. The arrest took place on October 12, 2025, during a targeted enforcement action in Sterling, Virginia.
Bautista-Perez entered the United States illegally at an unspecified date and time. He is currently being held in ICE custody as removal proceedings move forward.
“Luis Bautista-Perez evaded justice by fleeing Mexico and hiding in plain sight in Virginia. Thanks to the brave men and women of ICE, this wanted murderer is off the streets of Virginia,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Politicians like Schumer, Pritzker, and sanctuary politicians across Virginia protect these criminal illegal aliens over the safety of Americans. Under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Noem, this country is no longer a safe haven for violent, dangerous criminals.”
ICE noted that about 70% of its arrests have involved individuals convicted or charged with crimes within the United States; this figure does not include those who committed crimes abroad.
The Department of Homeland Security stated that despite a government shutdown affecting pay for law enforcement officers, ICE will continue targeted operations aimed at removing individuals accused or convicted of serious crimes from U.S. communities.
“The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will not let the Democrats’ government shutdown prevent our law enforcement officers from securing our nation from the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens. ICE law enforcement officers—who are working without pay because of the shutdown—will continue these kinds of targeted operations to remove murderers, pedophiles, and violent criminals from our streets to make America safe again,” according to DHS.
