U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested David Antonio Aviles Perez, an MS-13 gang member from El Salvador who is wanted for aggravated murder in his home country, according to an April 1 announcement by the Department of Homeland Security.
Aviles Perez was taken into custody on March 26 in San Diego, California. The case has drawn attention because Aviles Perez had previously been released from jail after a 2023 arrest for assault with a deadly weapon, possession of a controlled substance, and petty theft. Officials said this release followed sanctuary policies enacted by state politicians.
Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis said, “ICE arrested this dangerous criminal illegal alien and MS-13 gang member wanted in El Salvador for murder.” Bis continued, “Gavin Newsom’s sanctuary policies allowed this gang member to be released from jail after his arrest for assault with a deadly weapon, possession of a controlled substance, and petty theft. Releasing this gang member back into California neighborhoods put American lives at risk. Thanks to President Trump and Secretary Mullin, this murderer is off our streets and will soon be out of our country.”
Authorities reported that Aviles Perez entered the United States at an unknown date and location. He will remain in custody pending removal proceedings.
The Department of Homeland Security reiterated that under current leadership, criminal illegal aliens are not welcome in the United States.
