A total of 363 cases have been filed related to immigration-related crimes from Jan. 30-Feb. 5. Image for illustration purposes
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U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas
HOUSTON – A total of 363 cases have been filed related to immigration-related crimes from Jan. 30-Feb. 5.
A total of 220 people have been charged with felony reentry after removal, and another 116 face allegations of illegal entry. Most have felony convictions for narcotics, violent crime, various immigration offenses and more. The filed cases also include 23 individuals accused of human smuggling, while the remaining six matters are related to other immigration crimes.
These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations, ICE – Enforcement and Removal Operations, Border Patrol, Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.
The cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for this district. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal histories, including convictions for human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas remains one of the busiest in the nation. It represents 43 counties and more than nine million people covering 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from all seven divisions including Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen and Laredo work directly with our law enforcement partners on the federal, state and local levels to prosecute the suspected offenders of these and other federal crimes.
An indictment or criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
DHR Health is proud to offer comprehensive heart care with specialty cardiovascular service with clinics available to patients throughout the Rio Grande Valley, in the communities of Edinburg, McAllen, Mission, Weslaco, Elsa, Starr County, and Brownsville. Pictured: DHR Health’s Dr. Dimtri listening to heart. Image courtesy of DHR Health
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EDINBURG, Texas – Did you know that heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States and that the Hispanic population faces a higher risk due to the high rates of blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and obesity? The good news is that there are resources close to home that can help prevent and manage heart disease.
DHR Health is proud to offer comprehensive heart care with specialty cardiovascular service with clinics available to patients throughout the Rio Grande Valley, in the communities of Edinburg, McAllen, Mission, Weslaco, Elsa, Starr County, and Brownsville.
“At DHR Health, we believe in expanding access to care,” said Marissa Castaneda, senior executive vice president for DHR Health. “That is our promise to the region. We want our residents to know that they do not have to leave home to receive world-class, specialized care that they need.”
Regina Nava began her career with Terracon as an intern in Spring 2025, gaining hands-on experience supporting Materials and Geotechnical operations. Courtesy image. Bgd for illustration purposes
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PHARR, Texas –Terracon, a leading national consulting engineering firm comprised of engineers, scientists, architects, facilities experts, and field professionals, announces the addition of Regina Nava to its Pharr office as a staff engineer in the Materials department.
Nava began her career with Terracon as an intern in Spring 2025, gaining hands-on experience supporting Materials and Geotechnical operations. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) in December of the same year and transitioned into a full-time Staff Engineer role in early 2026. Her progression reflects Terracon’s trust in her capabilities and its commitment to supporting early-career engineers.
During her internship, Nava was exposed to project procedures from a project management perspective, building a strong technical foundation that allowed for a seamless transition into her full-time role. The continuity between her internship and staff position contributed to her accelerated professional growth.
Nava is actively involved in both the professional and student chapters of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Rio Grande Valley and the Texas Society of Professional Engineers (TSPE) Rio Grande Valley. She also remains engaged with student-level organizations as she continues her education and professional development.
“The team at Terracon’s Pharr office is something to be proud of,” said Nava. “I’m incredibly grateful for how welcoming everyone has been, the opportunities they’ve given me, and the supportive way they’ve helped me learn and grow.”
Terracon is an employee-owned, multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Explore with us by visiting terracon.com.
The City of McAllen Passport Division and Vitals (Birth & Death Records) Office is offering services on select Saturdays throughout 2026 to better accommodate residents. Image for illustration purposes
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The City of McAllen Passport Division and Vitals (Birth & Death Records) Office is offering services on select Saturdays throughout 2026 to better accommodate residents.
The Passport and Vitals Office will open for the first time this year on Saturday, February 7, then again on February 21. Services will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. No appointments are required, and all walk-ins are welcome.
During these hours, residents may apply for a U.S. passport book or passport card, both federally accepted forms of identification. Vitals services, including birth and death records, will also be available.
2026 Saturday Schedule:
February: 7 & 21
March: 7 & 21
April: 11
May: 16
June: 13
July: 18
September: 19
Hours of Operation Passport Division: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Vitals Division 8 a.m. to 12p.m
The kiosk may close before 4 p.m. depending on customer volume, so customers are encouraged to arrive with all required documents. Payment methods include check or money order for passport application fees and cash for processing fees and photos; credit cards are not accepted.
For additional information, contact the Passport Division at (956) 681-1450 or Vitals (Birth & Death Records) at (956) 681-1195.
This year’s event has reached an unprecedented 11,575 registered participants, a total that includes runners from the signature 10K race as well as participants from the Miracle Mile All-Inclusive Walk/Run and the post-race Fun Run for teachers, parents, kids, and students. Pictured above are participants from the 43rd annual run in 2025. Courtesy of The City of Edinburg
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EDINBURG, Texas – The City of Edinburg Parks & Recreation Department is proud to announce record-breaking registration numbers for the upcoming 44th Annual All-America City David Chavana 10K Run/Walk, scheduled for February 7, 2026.
This year’s event has reached an unprecedented 11,575 registered participants, a total that includes runners from the signature 10K race as well as participants from the Miracle Mile All-Inclusive Walk/Run and the post-race Fun Run for teachers, parents, kids, and students. This surpasses the previous all-time record of 10,476 participants, solidifying the event as the largest race in South Texas and marking the biggest turnout in its four-decade history.
The beloved race traces its origins back to 1982, when the late Coach David Chavana teamed up with the Edinburg Parks & Recreation Department. Driven by his passion for community health and fitness, Coach Chavana—alongside local coach and Edinburg Recreation Supervisor Rene Rodriguez, then-Parks & Recreation Director Frank Garza, and attorney Mick Sawyer—helped lay the foundation for what would become one of Edinburg’s most enduring traditions.
“Coach Chavana passed away in December, and this year’s overwhelming participation is a powerful reminder of the legacy he left behind,” said Parks & Rec Director Javier Garza. “This is exactly what he dreamed of—a community committed to health, wellness, and coming together as one. These record-breaking numbers prove that this icon’s impact continues to inspire generations. His legacy lives on in every participant who steps up to the starting line.”
In February 1983, the inaugural All-America City 10K welcomed 253 runners. Today, the event has grown more than forty-five times its original size, evolving into South Texas’s largest and most cherished annual celebration of wellness, inclusivity, and community spirit. Registration is now closed for the 2026 event due to capacity being reached.
United Day School proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Myrtha Villarreal as its new Head of School, effective February 2, 2026. Courtesy image. Bgd for illustration purposes
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LAREDO, Texas — United Day School proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Myrtha Villarreal as its new Head of School, effective February 2, 2026. Her leadership marks an exciting chapter as the school continues to build upon its strong foundation of academic excellence, character development, and community partnership.
Reflecting on her new role, Dr. Villarreal shared her vision for the school community. “Excellence at United Day School is a shared journey between our dedicated educators, our talented students, and you – our families. As Head of School, I am dedicated to upholding our tradition of high standards while nurturing a vibrant community where curiosity is celebrated and every child is inspired to achieve their personal best.”
Founded in 1953, United Day School is guided by its mission to remain a culturally diverse community dedicated to academic excellence that motivates all students to attain their highest levels of achievement supported by family, ethical and spiritual value.
Dr. Villarreal brings a distinguished career spanning 33 years in education, making her a cornerstone of the academic community in Laredo, Texas. For 25 of those years, she has served as a Principal within the United Independent School District (UISD), where her visionary leadership has shaped the lives of countless students, educators, and families.
Her educational philosophy is rooted in excellence, paired with a hands-on, student-centered approach. Dr. Villarreal is widely respected for her passion for working alongside children and teachers to cultivate high-achieving, supportive learning environments where both students and educators can thrive.
Throughout her career, Dr. Villarreal has been recognized at both the local and state levels for her leadership, expertise, and advocacy for bilingual education, including:
• H-E-B Excellence in Education – Principal of the Year (2017): One of the most prestigious honors in Texas education, recognizing her leadership, dedication to student success, and community involvement.
• Bilingual Educator of the Year – (Texas A&M International University): Honoring her commitment to bilingual education and her belief that language should serve as a bridge to opportunity for every student.
Mr. Cliffe Killam, President of the United Day School Board of Directors, shared his enthusiasm for Dr. Villarreal’s appointment. “We are excited that Dr. Myrtha Villarreal, who is a well-respected administrator within the Laredo community and recognized for excellence on a state level, is leading United Day School. United Day School continues to be the premier private school for academic excellence from PP3 to 8th grade, and Dr. Villarreal’s leadership will only strengthen this tradition and culture of excellence.”
Dr. Villarreal succeeds Ms. Rita Peters, who has served United Day School with dedication and distinction. Reflecting on the transition, Ms. Peters stated, “it has been a privilege to serve United Day School, and I am pleased to pass the leadership to Dr. Myrtha Villarreal. Her impressive experience and genuine, approachable style make her a wonderful fit for our United Day School community, and I am confident the school will thrive under her leadership.”
As a veteran administrator, Dr. Villarreal has led multiple campuses, including San Isidro Elementary School and Colonel Santos Benavides Elementary School, with a focus on fostering cultures of respect, continuous improvement, and academic rigor. She is also known as a mentor to fellow administrators and a strong advocate for classroom teachers, working to ensure they have the tools and support needed to inspire the next generation.
As Dr. Villarreal begins her tenure on February 2, 2026, United Day School looks ahead with confidence, furthering its legacy of excellence while preparing students for the future.
United Day School offers a comprehensive and well-rounded educational experience, including strong academics, STEM education, fine arts, athletics, and the Character Counts program, all within a nurturing environment that emphasizes ethical values, responsibility, and respect.
Families interested in learning more about United Day School or beginning the registration process are encouraged to visit www.unitedday.org.
About United Day School: Established in 1953, United Day School is a culturally diverse, independent school serving students from PP3 through 8th grade. The school is dedicated to academic excellence, character development, and fostering a values-based partnership with families.
Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated legal action against Screwston Anti-Fascist Committee (“Screwston”), an Antifa-affiliated unincorporated nonprofit association, for potentially violating Texas law. Image for illustration purposes
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Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. Image: X
Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated legal action against Screwston Anti-Fascist Committee (“Screwston”), an Antifa-affiliated unincorporated nonprofit association, for potentially violating Texas law.
“Radical leftists have engaged in coordinated efforts to militantly attack our nation and undermine the rule of law. Screwston and related groups have illegally doxed Texans and encouraged violent terrorism against fellow citizens,” said Attorney General Paxton. “These deranged traitors will face the full force of law. No stone will be left unturned, and no tool will be left unused.”
The investigation aims to determine the exact nature of Screwston’s involvement in unlawful activity, including aiding in the commission of terrorism and “doxing,” in violation of Texas law. The organization is self-admittedly affiliated with Antifa, which has been designated by President Donald Trump as a terrorist organization. Additionally, reported members of Screwston affiliates recently participated in an armed assault on an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) facility in Alvarado, Texas. Merchandise sold by the group promotes the death of ICE agents and encourages violence by mentally ill “transgender” individuals.
As part of the investigation, Attorney General Paxton has issued a Request to Examine to Screwston, which is a legal demand for records and documents that will be used to identify the scope of legal violations committed by the organization.
The Governor was joined by Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian, U.S. Department of Energy director of the Office of Technology Commercialization and Chief Commercialization Officer Anthony Pugliese, U.S. Space Force mobilization assistant to the chief of space operations Major General John M. Olson (Ret.), and founder and CEO of Element3 Hood Whitson. Photo: Office of The Governor
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MIDLAND — Governor Greg Abbott delivered remarks and cut the ribbon at the Element3 Resources Permian Basin Lithium Extraction and Carbonate facility.
“Texas is America’s undisputed energy leader,” said Governor Abbott. “The future of America depends on producing the elements essential to our supply chain for products we use every day. Lithium is one of those elements critical to batteries, advanced manufacturing, and national defense. By the grace of God, we have lithium and other essential rare earth materials right here in our own state. Element3’s plan is the epitome of quintessential Texas ingenuity, building the first lithium carbonate production plant from oilfield waste right here in the United States. Texas is bigger, stronger, and better because of Element3.”
Governor Abbott and company officials at the ribbon cutting. Photo: Office of The Governor.
The Governor was joined by Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian, U.S. Department of Energy director of the Office of Technology Commercialization and Chief Commercialization Officer Anthony Pugliese, U.S. Space Force mobilization assistant to the chief of space operations Major General John M. Olson (Ret.), and founder and CEO of Element3 Hood Whitson.
During the ribbon cutting ceremony, Governor Abbott thanked the Trump Administration for prioritizing American self-reliance and applauded Element3 for its innovation to produce lithium carbonate at a key time for U.S. energy security. The Governor noted that the future of America’s mineral dominance is happening in Texas, as we bring the production of critical minerals home to the United States.
Governor Abbott speaking to the crowd I’m Midland. Photo: Office of The Governor
Element3 focuses on the extraction of lithium and other critical materials from oil and gas wastewater. Element3 harnesses these underutilized resources to create a secure and environmentally stable domestic supply of materials required for energy transition and advanced manufacturing. Learn more at www.element3.io.
Donna Independent School District (Donna ISD), in partnership with South Texas College (STC), have launched its first-ever dual credit cohorts in Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) and Automotive Technology, taking place at the Mid-Valley Campus this spring 2026 Semester. STC image
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Donna Independent School District (Donna ISD), in partnership with South Texas College (STC), have launched its first-ever dual credit cohorts in Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) and Automotive Technology, taking place at the Mid-Valley Campus this spring 2026 Semester.
This milestone partnership marks a significant step forward in expanding career and technical education opportunities for Donna High School students by providing access to college-level instruction, hands-on training and industry-aligned certifications while students are still in high school.
“This partnership with South Texas College is a game-changer for our students,” said Donna ISD Executive Director of Leadership and College, Career and Military Readiness (CCMR), Deborah L. Medrano. “It creates a direct bridge between high school and career, giving students access to college-level instruction, industry-aligned certifications and real-world skills while they are still with us. Most importantly, it opens doors, allowing our students to graduate not only with a diploma, but with confidence, credentials and a clear pathway into high-demand careers.”
Students enrolled in the HVAC program will complete coursework at STC’s Mid-Valley Campus, gaining real-world experience in professional lab environments designed to mirror industry standards.
“Hands-on training is critical because it allows students to move beyond textbooks and truly experience their chosen field,” said Medrano. “Programs like Automotive Technology and HVAC help students discover their strengths, build technical skills and understand workplace expectations early on. When students can apply what they learn in real environments, they become more engaged, more motivated and better prepared for life after graduation, whether that’s college, the workforce or continued technical training.”
The collaboration reflects a shared commitment between Donna ISD and STC to strengthen workforce pipelines and address regional labor demands.
“This partnership was inspired by a shared commitment to create clear, hands-on pathways into high-demand careers,” said STC Director of Dual Credit Programs Relations and Engagement Lisa Aleman. “By working with Donna ISD, we’re meeting students where they are and providing access to industry-relevant training that leads directly to opportunity. Automotive Technology and HVAC-R are workforce needs in our region, and this collaboration allows us to prepare students early with the skills employers are seeking.”
Aleman emphasized that the partnership aligns directly with STC’s mission to serve the Rio Grande Valley (RGV).
“Serving the Rio Grande Valley means investing in our students, our schools and our local workforce,” said Aleman. “This partnership reflects STC’s mission to expand access to education that strengthens our communities and our economy. By bringing college-level technical training into high schools, we’re removing barriers, building talent locally and supporting the long-term growth of the RGV.”
Early exposure to college-level technical education plays a key role in shaping student confidence and career readiness.
“It helps students see themselves as capable, college-ready and career-focused,” said Aleman. “When students gain hands-on experience and earn college credit while still in high school, it builds confidence, focuses their career goals and motivates them to take the next step toward a credential, degree or high-demand career.”
Looking ahead, Donna ISD sees the partnership continuing to grow.
“We see this partnership continuing to expand in both depth and opportunity,” said Medrano. “Our vision is to grow additional career pathways, increase dual-credit access and strengthen industry connections so even more students can benefit. Together with STC, we want to create a seamless pipeline from high school to college to career, ensuring our students are workforce-ready and equipped to succeed in our regional economy.”
The launch of these inaugural dual credit cohorts underscores a shared commitment to innovation, access and student success which positions Donna ISD students for strong futures in high-demand technical careers.
A total of 13,964 cases have been filed in immigration and similar border security-related matters from Jan. 20 – Dec. 31, 2025. Image for illustration purposes.
Texas Border Business
U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas
HOUSTON – A total of 13,964 cases have been filed in immigration and similar border security-related matters from Jan. 20 – Dec. 31, 2025.
Of those charged, 6,404 people faced illegal entry charges, while another 6,574 were alleged to have entered the country illegally after having been previously removed. Many of these defendants had prior felony convictions involving narcotics, violent crimes and immigration offenses. An additional 889 people were accused of engaging in human smuggling crimes, while the remaining 264 faced border security-related charges of assaulting officers, firearms offenses, smuggling, violent crimes, narcotics trafficking and other matters.
Some of those facing new criminal charges this past year are a result of “Operation Pick-Off,” an initiative created in the Southern District of Texas that targets criminal illegal aliens who are currently terms of probation following convictions for state crimes, such as drug offenses, human smuggling, fraud, burglary, assault and other violent crimes. The enforcement effort, originally announced Aug. 25, 2025, led to federal charges against 67 illegal aliens in the Rio Grande Valley area, 65 of whom had returned to the country after being previously removed, only to commit other crimes, according to the allegations. In a subsequent roundup in Laredo, law enforcement took another 28 into custody, including a convicted murderer.
“For those that want to come to this country without permission and then victimize American citizens once here, we are more than happy to accommodate them with a stay at a federal facility, followed by a one-way ticket home,” said Ganjei. “This initiative is a win for public safety, but, as I said at the announcement of this initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is not going to rest until we bring Pick-Off to all 43 counties of the Southern District of Texas. If you’re here illegally and have committed crimes in our communities, consider yourself warned. We are coming. This is what Operation Take Back America looks like.”
Other notable cases allege involve attacks on or impeding law enforcement in the course of their duties. Two of those charged are Mexican nationals Juan Carmen Padron Mendez and Juan Carlos Padron Barron, who allegedly strangled a Border Patrol agent while en route to a Houston-area detention facility. Court documents allege Mendez wrapped his arm around the agent’s neck as Barron grabbed the agent’s belongings and fled on foot before authorities apprehended both men. In another assault chase, the United States charged 33-year-old El Salvadorian national Walter Leonel Perez Rodriguez, who allegedly threw a 32-ounce stainless steel mug filled with hot coffee on an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer, striking him in the face. The officer allegedly fell to the ground, lost consciousness and was treated for second-degree burns to his neck and arms and a laceration to his upper lip that required 18 stiches. Additionally, Mexican national Javier Cornelio Cruz-Nava, 36, allegedly assaulted a federal officer in Houston. According to the complaint, during immigration enforcement operations Oct. 1, 2025, authorities conducted a traffic stop of Cruz-Nava, who subsequently fled on foot. A Texas Department of Public Safety agent caught up to Cruz-Nava, who then allegedly lunged and threw the officer into a wrought-iron fence, causing two deep head wounds to the officer, according to the charges.
“These officers place their lives on the line every day to protect our communities and country, and they deserve to be protected in return,” said Ganjei. “Anyone who attacks law enforcement is attacking the American system of justice, and those who choose violence over lawfulness will be met with swift charges. The Southern District of Texas has a zero-tolerance policy towards anyone who does so. The message is clear – comply with officer directives and keep your hands to yourself.”
Many others have been charged with human smuggling, such as Texas resident Vicente Garcia Jr. and Jose Alexis Baeza-Combaluzier whose alleged crimes resulted in the deaths of two persons – one of whom was a 14-year-old child. The charges allege Garcia was to transfer one illegal alien to Baeza-Combaluzier who had four other illegal aliens in his vehicle. He departed the area with the passengers but eventually came to a stop due to a flooded road, according to the complaint. When authorities attempted to make an approach, he allegedly accelerated and drove through a flooded area and eventually drove into a canal. Law enforcement immediately began rescue operations, but two persons drowned, including the minor, according to the charges.
Other complaints filed in human smuggling matters detail instances of dangerous and life-threatening conditions of confinement, such as the one against Greibein Alexis Pinot-Duarte, a Honduran national who allegedly smuggled more than four dozen illegal aliens in a refrigerated tractor-trailer near Freer. According to the complaint, a further inspection of the 55-degree trailer led to the discovery of 51 illegal aliens concealed in a cramped compartment beneath boxes of produce. In a similar case in Laredo, Kenneth Gamboa allegedly drove a box truck hiding 40 illegal aliens to a Border Patrol checkpoint in Jim Hogg County. The investigation revealed a false wall in the storage area of the vehicle that had created a hidden compartment, according to the complaint. The charges allege the vehicle had multiple boards screwed shut to prevent the individuals from being able to get out on their own. Also charged is Brandon Lajohn Hargrove, Houston, and Jose Luis Castellanos-Hercules, an illegal alien from Honduras. They allegedly transported 55 illegal aliens in a hidden compartment in a produce trailer near San Ygnacio. According to the complaint, multiple heavy pallets blocked the access door and prevented the aliens from being able to leave on their own. Once authorities discovered them, the aliens had to crawl through a small door to get out from behind the false wall. Several of the illegal aliens in the cases are also facing charges of illegal entry or reentry.
Also among the notable cases brought as part of Operation Take Back America are charges against 16 foreign nationals illegally residing in Houston for drug trafficking and weapons allegations following an operation targeting Venezuelan nationals linked to the “Anti-Tren” criminal organization. Similar to the criminal activities members of Tren de Aragua have committed, Anti-Tren affiliates allegedly engaged in attempted murder, other acts of violence and threats of such. Some members have been charged with conspiring to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine and various weapons crimes, with one allegedly being an alien in possession of ammunition.
“The Southern District’s twin priorities are securing our border and the eradication of violent crime. This case implicates both,” said Ganjei. “Operation Take Back America means going on the offensive against transnational criminal organizations to ensure that they cannot take root in our community and endanger public safety. SDTX is going to be unapologetic in carrying out that mission.”
These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations, ICE – Enforcement and Removal Operations, Border Patrol, Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.
The cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for this district. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal histories, including convictions for human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas remains one of the busiest in the nation. It represents 43 counties and more than nine million people covering 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from all seven divisions including Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen and Laredo work directly with our law enforcement partners on the federal, state and local levels to prosecute the suspected offenders of these and other federal crimes.
An indictment or criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.