ICE Conducts Targeted Enforcement Operation in Bellefonte, Arresting 24 Individuals for Violations of U.S. Immigration Laws

Strategic Insights -

ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations officers conducted a targeted enforcement operation in Bellefonte, Penn., on Aug. 19, resulting in the arrests of 24 individuals for violations of U.S. immigration laws. The operation targeted multiple immigration law violators suspected of temporarily residing in the area, and resulted in the apprehension of several individuals with significant criminal records. "ICE is focusing on the worst first through targeted enforcement. However, it is also a crime to live in this country illegally," said ERO Philadelphia Field Office Director Brian McShane.

Key Takeaways:

  • 24 individuals were arrested for violations of U.S. immigration laws, including 9 aliens with final orders of removal and 4 previously expelled under Title 42.
  • The operation targeted multiple immigration law violators suspected of temporarily residing in the area, and was initiated following an investigation that identified the individuals.
  • The arrested individuals included Oscar Alexis Martinez-Lopez, a Salvadoran illegal alien and suspected MS-13 gang member who was previously arrested in El Salvador for homicide, and Delfin Amaya-Peres, a Honduran illegal alien whose criminal record includes convictions for assault, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest in 2011.
  • 7 of the arrested individuals had final orders of removal, 4 of whom had their orders reinstated.
  • 4 of the individuals arrested were previously expelled under Title 42.
  • ICE remains dedicated to upholding the immigration system's integrity while prioritizing the removals of aliens who undermine the safety and security of the United States.

Statistics:

  • 24 individuals were arrested during the operation.
  • 9 aliens had final orders of removal.
  • 4 previously expelled individuals were arrested under Title 42.
  • 7 individuals had final orders of removal reinstated.
  • 4 individuals were arrested for crimes including assault and resisting arrest.

Sources:

  • US Immigration and Customs Enforcement
  • ERO Philadelphia Field Office Director Brian McShane
  • ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423)