A Mexican national has been sentenced to 42 months in federal prison for illegally reentering the United States, marking his fifth known return after removal. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Jose de Jesus Galicia-Castillo, 36, pleaded guilty on September 24, 2025. U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos delivered the sentence and noted additional evidence presented about Galicia-Castillo's criminal history while he was unlawfully present in the country.
Galicia-Castillo has two prior convictions for illegal reentry following removal from the United States. His first removal occurred in 2008, and he returned at least twice more without authorization. He was most recently found near Falfurrias on July 25, 2025.
Following his prison term, Galicia-Castillo is expected to face further removal proceedings as he is not a U.S. citizen. He remains in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility.
The investigation was conducted by Customs and Border Protection, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley A. Pruitt prosecuted the case.
According to the Department of Justice, this prosecution falls under Operation Take Back America, which aims to address illegal immigration and dismantle cartels and transnational criminal organizations.
