The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced on March 13 its immigration enforcement statistics for the week, detailing criminal charges brought in partnership with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol and Homeland Security Investigations El Paso.
The report highlights ongoing efforts to address illegal entry and related crimes along New Mexico’s border, reflecting a focus on public safety and border security. The statistics are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice aimed at combating illegal immigration and dismantling transnational criminal organizations.
During the one-week period ending March 13, authorities charged 75 individuals with illegal reentry after deportation, five with alien smuggling, and 31 with illegal entry. Additionally, 73 individuals faced charges related to illegal entry, violation of military security regulations, and entering restricted military property following the establishment of a National Defense Area in New Mexico. Many defendants charged under illegal reentry statutes had prior convictions for offenses such as aggravated assault, narcotics trafficking, theft, aggravated DUI, or previous immigration violations.
A notable case involved Jesus Meza Lopez, a Mexican citizen who was stopped by law enforcement officers. Authorities reported finding 20 kilograms of methamphetamine, 100 grams of fentanyl, and a loaded Glock .45 caliber pistol in his vehicle. Lopez faces multiple charges including illegal reentry and drug trafficking offenses; he will remain in custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for March 16.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office emphasized that these figures represent only prosecutions handled by their office and do not include individuals processed administratively by immigration officials. The district covers all 33 counties in New Mexico and shares approximately 180 miles of international border with Mexico. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from Albuquerque and Las Cruces continue to work closely with federal, state, and local partners to prosecute immigration-related cases.
