ODESSA, Texas (KOSA) - Federal prosecutors have intensified their efforts against immigration-related crimes, filing over 900 cases within the Western District of Texas since January 20. Acting United States Attorney Margaret Leachman announced these findings, emphasizing the significance of prosecuting immigration offenses due to the district's extensive border with Mexico, which spans 660 miles, and its dense population of approximately 7.6 million residents.
"Prosecuting immigration and border-related crimes has long been and remains a priority within this district," Leachman stated. The U.S. Attorney's Office highlights the collaborative law enforcement effort which includes federal, state, and local agencies aimed at maintaining order and safety.
The cases brought forth detail serious accusations against various individuals, many of whom have longstanding criminal histories. Notably, Juan Ramon Hernandez-Limon was arrested after attempting to evade officers from ICE. Previously convicted for illegal re-entry and firearm possession, he faces up to 20 years if convicted again. His arrest on January 26 is just one example of the heightened scrutiny concerning immigration offenses.
Further illustrating the crackdown, two Guatemalan nationals, Anderson and Ever Morales-Calderon, were apprehended on Interstate 35 after allegedly pointing rifles at passing trucks. Their vehicle reportedly contained two air rifles and a .22 caliber rifle. Each now faces up to ten years behind bars.
Adding to the push for stricter enforcement, Honduran national Melvin Armando Funes-Canales was transferred to federal custody after being discovered with illegal substances, all the more concerning considering he had been deported five times prior. Previously convicted of burglary and illegal re-entry, he also faces penalties of up to ten years following his recent arrest.
Meanwhile, authorities are also responding to more complex smuggling operations. A group of four men, including Yair Alejandro Aguilar-Flores and Jorge Alfredo Lopez-Acevedo, were arrested for allegedly harboring twelve undocumented individuals across local hotels. Each could potentially receive up to ten years if found guilty of the charges against them.
Further emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the enforcement efforts, Mexican national Marcelo Olvera-Moreno was indicted for firearm possession after it was discovered he had illegally purchased the weapon, knowing he was living in the U.S. without documentation. If convicted, he could face up to 15 years.
Leachman reiterated the focus on ensuring the safety of local communities, affirming, "With our district’s extensive border with Mexico and large population, prosecuting immigration crimes is a top priority." This statement reflects the urgency felt among law enforcement to uphold immigration laws amid mounting concerns over public safety and illegal immigration.
Throughout these proceedings, officials maintain their dedication to confronting challenges posed by illegal immigration. With high-profile cases and continued enforcement activities, the voices advocating for strict immigration control assert their commitment to addressing these issues within the state.
Say residents of Texas can feel more secure with attempts to uphold the law and facilitate safer communities.
These aggressive prosecutions shed light on larger issues tied to immigration policy and public safety, as the Western District of Texas faces the pressing realities of processing hundreds of immigration cases weekly. The surge reflects both the federal government's objectives and local law enforcement's commitment to discovering and eliminating immigration-related threats.