Introduction to the Issue
Seventeen defendants who allegedly re-entered the United States after being previously deported are now facing federal charges, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced on Friday.
Background on the Charges
Several of the defendants have prior felony convictions, including one for assault with bodily injury, according to law enforcement. One defendant is suspected of murder, while another was arrested on suspicion of committing assault with intent to rape.
Legal Consequences
Under federal law, individuals who have been previously removed from the U.S. but are found in the country again can face up to two years in federal prison. Those with prior felony convictions face a maximum sentence of 10 years, while defendants removed after an aggravated felony conviction could receive up to 20 years behind bars.
Notable Cases
Among the defendants is 29-year-old Marvin Campos Cerna, a citizen of El Salvador, who was arrested in West Hollywood on March 7 for allegedly committing assault with intent to rape, false imprisonment, sodomy, and kidnapping. He had previously been convicted in 2014 for assault with bodily injury, serving six years in California state prison before being deported. Campos is now charged with illegal re-entry and being found in the U.S. after removal.
Investigation and Prosecution
ICE and Homeland Security Investigations are leading the investigations, with criminal cases being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys in the Domestic Security and Immigration Crimes Section and the General Crimes Section.
Conclusion
The charges against these 17 defendants highlight the ongoing issue of individuals re-entering the United States after deportation, sometimes with violent criminal histories. The legal system is taking steps to address this, with significant potential penalties for those found guilty. It’s a complex issue that involves both immigration and criminal law, requiring coordinated efforts from various law enforcement agencies.
FAQs
- Q: What happens to individuals who re-enter the U.S. after being deported?
A: They can face federal charges, with potential prison sentences ranging from 2 to 20 years, depending on their prior convictions. - Q: Are all the defendants linked to violent crimes?
A: While not all defendants are directly linked to violent crimes, several have prior felony convictions, including for violent offenses such as assault with bodily injury and suspected murder. - Q: Who is leading the investigations and prosecutions?
A: ICE and Homeland Security Investigations are leading the investigations, with prosecutions being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys. - Q: What is the significance of Marvin Campos Cerna’s case?
A: Marvin Campos Cerna’s case is notable because he was previously convicted and deported but allegedly committed serious crimes again after re-entering the U.S., highlighting the challenges of recidivism and the need for vigilant law enforcement.
