U.S. Department of Homeland Security Weekly Digest Bulletin

ICE Arrests MS-13 Gang Member with Extensive Rap Sheet in Maryland After Sanctuary Politicians Allow Repeated Arrest and Relesase 05/18/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs ICE Arrests MS-13 Gang Member with Extensive Rap Sheet in Maryland After Sanctuary Politicians Allow Repeated Arrest and Release Sanctuary politicians are playing Russian roulette with American lives  WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a significant arrest by Baltimore Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents of a validated MS-13 gang member.   On May 12, ICE apprehended Nelson Vladimir Amaya-Benitez, a 26-year-old from El Salvador, in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Amaya-Benitez is an MS-13 gang member. This criminal gang has been designated a foreign terrorist organization.  Amaya-Benitez was previously removed from the U.S. but re-entered illegally and has been breaking the law for nearly a decade since he first illegally entered the U.S. in 2016. He has a laundry list of charges and run-ins with the law, including armed robbery, theft, malicious second-degree burning, and more. A laundry list of his charges is below: On May 9, 2017, the Prince George’s County Police Department, MD, arrested and charged Amaya with theft: $1,000 to under $10,000. On May 26, 2017, the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD), MD, arrested and charged Amaya with armed robbery. On November 17, 2017, the Prince George’s County District Court in Upper Marlboro, MD, nolle pros AMAY’s charge of theft: $1,000 to under $10,000. On March 7, 2018, the MCPD arrested and charged Amaya with rogue and vagabond. On February 16, 2022, the United States Park Police Department, DC, arrested and charged Amaya for the offense of unauthorized use of vehicle and possession of an open container. On August 18, 2022, the MCPD arrested and charged Amaya with manual serial number: remove/obliterate. On February 8, 2023, the MCPD arrested and charged Amaya with conspiracy theft: $100 to under $1,500, theft: $100 to under $1,500. On May 4, 2023, the Hyattsville Police Department, MD, arrested and charged Amaya for the offense of theft: less than $100.00 and unauthorized removal of motor vehicle. On May 13, 2023, the MCPD arrested and charged Amaya with theft: $25,000 to under $100,000. On May 22, 2023, the MCPD arrested and charged Amaya for with malicious burning second degree. On May 31, 2023, the MCPD arrested and charged Amaya for the offense of motor vehicle/ unlawful taking. On August 4, 2023, the District Court for Montgomery County in Silver Spring, MD, convicted Amaya of motor vehicle/ unlawful taking and rogue and vagabond and sentenced him to five years confinement with all but 18 months suspended. On June 27, 2024, the MCPD arrested and charged Amaya with rogue and vagabond. On September 9, 2024, the Montgomery County Police Department, MD, arrested and charged Amaya with attempted motor vehicle/ unlawful taking. Despite having Amaya-Benitez in custody on numerous occasions, Maryland authorities released this criminal repeatedly back into American communities and local authorities refused five times to honor ICE detainers. However, ICE agents finally successfully nabbed the criminal on Monday.   “For nearly a decade, Nelson Vladimir Amaya-Benitez—a serial criminal and known MS-13 gang member—has wreaked havoc across American communities. He was deported from the U.S. and returned illegally to terrorize American citizens with armed robbery, malicious burning, thievery and more,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Outrageously, ICE detainers on this criminal illegal alien were not honored five times. Local authorities repeatedly released this public safety threat back onto Maryland’s streets to terrorize American citizens. President Trump and Secretary Noem will not allow sanctuary politicians to continue to play Russian roulette with American lives.”     # # # ICE Arrests Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Rapists, Kidnappers, Gang Members in Sanctuary Cities 05/19/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs ICE Arrests Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Rapists, Kidnappers, and Gang Members in Sanctuary Cities Sanctuary policies protect criminal illegal aliens over the safety of American citizens    WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has successfully detained dangerous criminal illegal aliens in Sanctuary jurisdictions across the country.   ICE agents continue law-enforcement actions, even in Sanctuary Cities.    “These sanctuary politicians are playing Russian roulette with American lives. While sanctuary politicians in places like Philadelphia, Boston, Newark, and California work to thwart ICE, DHS will continue arresting criminal illegal aliens and getting them out of our country,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia. “Radical sanctuary politicians need to put the safety of the American people first—not criminal illegal aliens. No American wants criminal illegal aliens loose on America’s streets and neither should our leaders who represent them.”   Below are examples of a few illegal aliens ICE removed from Sanctuary Cities:   On May 15, 2025, ICE Boston along with federal partners from the U.S. Border Patrol, arrested Jose Reyes Alvarez, a 28-year-old illegal alien from El Salvador. Reyes is a confirmed MS-13 gang member who had been arrested in Evertt, MA for unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle.      On May 15, 2025, ICE Los Angeles arrested Manuel Seberiano Garcia-Munoz, a 32-year-old illegal alien from Mexico. Although he was previously deported, Garcia again illegally entered the U.S. Garcia was arrested and convicted of Assault with a Deadly Weapon and sentenced to 4 years in prison.     On May 15, 2025, ICE Newark arrested Oscar Juracan, a 32-year-old illegal alien from Guatemala who entered the U.S. illegally. Juracan’s criminal history includes a conviction for Aggravated Sexual Assault-During Robbery, to which he was sentenced to 7 years. He will remain in custody pending removal proceedings.     On May 15, 2025, ICE Philadelphia arrested Tito Flores-Gonzalez, a 27-year-old illegal alien from Mexico. Despite being voluntarily deported back to Mexico twice by United States Border Patrol (USBP,) Flores-Gonzalez re-entered the United States illegally for a third time. On January 15, 2025, the Delaware State Police arrested FLORES-Gonzalez for attempted kidnapping in the second degree, terroristic threatening, harassment and offensive touching. He was found guilty of terroristic threatening, harassment and offensive touching charges. He will remain in ICE custody pending removal proceedings.       # # # ICE Arrests Gang Members, Drug Traffickers, and Violent Criminal Illegal Aliens in Sanctuary State Massachusetts 05/19/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs ICE Arrests Gang Members, Drug Traffickers, Violent Criminal Illegal Aliens in Sanctuary State Massachusetts    “If you are here illegally and break the law, we will hunt you down, arrest you and lock you up. That’s a promise.” - Secretary Noem    WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) successfully detained and removed criminal illegal aliens from the sanctuary state of Massachusetts.    “Despite sanctuary politicians and activists trying to disrupt ICE operations, our brave law enforcement removed gang members, drug traffickers, and other violent criminals from Massachusetts’ streets,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “The targets of this operation in Massachusetts included criminal illegal aliens charged with soliciting to commit murder, assault and battery on a pregnant woman, assault and battery on law enforcement, and indecent assault on a 7-year-old. President Trump and Secretary Noem will not allow criminal illegal aliens to roam free, putting the lives of more American citizens in danger.”     Below are a few examples of the criminal illegal aliens ICE has removed from Massachusetts.   Soliciting to Commit Murder:   On May 5, 2025, ICE arrested Kleber Lasso an illegal alien from Ecuador. On July 24, 2018, Lasso was convicted for soliciting to commit murder and sentenced to only 1 year in jail. Brockton District Court released failed to honor ICE’s detainer and released this criminal back onto Massachusetts’ streets.       Assault and Battery:    On May 7, 2025, ICE arrested Senat Dufren, an illegal alien from Haiti, in Waltham, Massachusetts. He was previously arrested in Roxbury, Massachusetts, for assault and battery and malicious destruction of property. ICE lodged an immigration detainer with the Nashua Street Jail. Local authorities did not honor the detainer and released Dufren. He then went on to victimize more innocent Americans—including a pregnant woman. He was then arrested again on February 19, 2025, for assault and battery on a pregnant victim, assault and battery family/household, and assault and battery.     On May 12, 2025, ICE arrested Elismar Alves Ferreira, an illegal alien from Brazil. He has a previous conviction of breaking and entering and has been charged with assault and battery on a police officer, resisting arrest, operating negligently, and disorderly conduct.       On May 12, 2025, ICE arrested Carlos Araujo, an illegal alien from Uruguay. He was convicted of indecent assault and battery of a 7-year-old female. On May 11, 2025, ICE arrested Fernando Pereira De Oliveria, an illegal alien from Brazil. He is charged with Indecent Assault and Battery on a Person 14 or Over.     On May 5, 2025, ICE arrested Chanthan Chout, an illegal alien from Cambodia. He was previously convicted of Disorderly Conduct, Resisting Officer, and Aggravated Assault with a Weapon.      On May 6, 2025, ICE arrested Mario Nolasco Lopez, a four-time deported illegal alien from Guatemala. He was previously arrested for Driving Under the Influence of liquor and has pending charges of Domestic Violence and Aggravated Assault on Non-Family Member.      On May 7, 2025, ICE arrested Romulo Ivan Morocho, a citizen of Ecuador. His criminal history includes assault to rape and kidnapping, which he pled down to aggravated assault and assault and battery. He was sentenced to 2 years in prison.       On May 10, 2025, ICE arrested, Dennis Ernesto Hernanadez Ortiz an illegal alien from El Salvador. He has criminal charges of unlawful possession of firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, assault and battery and intimidation.        Gang Members:   On May 7, 2025, ICE Boston arrested Irwin Alexander Martinez, an illegal alien from El Salvador, near Chelsea, Massachusetts. He is an MS-13 gang member.       On May 7, 2025, ICE arrested Noe Pena Garcia, a 24-year-old illegal alien from El Salvador and suspected MS-13 gang member. On January 12, 2024, Pena was arrested in Boston for carrying a dangerous weapon, dangerous weapon brass knuckles, and a stun gun.      On May 8, 2025, ICE arrested Moises Amadeo Diaz-Rosales, an illegal alien from El Salvador and confirmed 18th Street gang member.      On May 9, 2025, ICE arrested Yandal Diaz Rosales, an illegal alien from El Salvador and confirmed 18th Street gang member.       Drug Traffickers:     On May 10, 2025, ICE arrested Rafael Tejada Alcantara, an illegal alien from the Dominican Republic. He was already deported twice. He has arrest warrants in Massachusetts for assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, possession to distribute class B, intimidation, disorderly person, property violation, and breaking and entering nighttime with intent to commit felony. Tejada was convicted for trafficking cocaine.      On May 10, 2025, ICE arrested Yoanny Roldan Zapata, an illegal alien from Colombia. He was convicted of trafficking/manufacturing/carrying narcotics in Colombia and was sentenced to 14 years imprisonment.      On May 10, 2025, ICE arrested Lusbel Lopez Feliz, an illegal alien from the Dominican Republic. Lopez has several criminal charges throughout Massachusetts, including seven charges for distributing heroin/fentanyl and five different arraignments for distributing cocaine. Her detainer was not honored by local authorities following a previous arrest and she was released into the community.       Foreign Criminals:   On May 7, 2025, ICE Boston arrested Sergey Ivashkevich, who had an active Interpol Red Notice out of Kazakhstan for extortion with threat of violence.    # # # CCHT Chronicle: May 2025 05/19/2025   View as a webpage The Monthly Newsletter of the Center for Countering Human Trafficking May 2025 BLUE CAMPAIGN CORNER Mind Your Mental: Mental Health Awareness Month Human trafficking affects individuals of all ages and backgrounds, whether through sex trafficking and/or forced labor. Each survivor's journey is unique, yet most share a common struggle—the toll on their mental health.  As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, it's crucial to recognize the hidden impact of human trafficking. Survivors often face challenges, including but not limited to, PTSD, anxiety, depression, self-harm, and other mental health conditions that may result of human trafficking trauma. Raising awareness is the first step toward supporting survivors and fostering open and honest conversations about these critical issues. Understanding the impact of human trafficking is essential to providing meaningful support to survivors. Visit our What Is Human Trafficking? page to learn more about the types of trafficking, indicators, and how we can address these challenges together. There's Help Out There In one case example, a criminal organization engaging in sex trafficking subjected young women to unimaginable suffering for over a decade. These women were smuggled from Mexico to the United States and forced into commercial sex in New York. They endured beatings, sexual assaults, and were threatened that harm would come to their families if they did not comply. While these women were eventually recovered, the trauma they endured left lasting scars, both visible and invisible. In the aftermath, a network of service providers and individuals provided essential support and advocacy, with a strong focus on mental health care. The victims were offered trauma-informed counseling, case management, and comprehensive care. Prioritizing mental health as a cornerstone for survivor healing ensured no one faced recovery alone. They were also provided a holistic approach to emergency housing, legal advocacy, and clinical counseling, all designed to empower survivors and guide them toward recovery. Together, service providers played a pivotal role in helping these women take their first steps toward rebuilding their lives and finding hope beyond the trauma. Self Care The Blue Campaign's efforts to educate the public about human trafficking is vital, but it can also be emotionally challenging. Confronting serious topics like sex trafficking and forced labor can impact the professionals and advocates dedicated to helping survivors. It's important to take a step back, reflect, and seek help if you are in need—there's nothing wrong with focusing on your mental health. Remember, you're never alone in this mission. The Blue Campaign is a national effort, supported by thousands of people just like you who are dedicated to making a difference.  Hidden Signs Human trafficking often leaves hidden indicators that aren't as obvious as physical ones. Behavioral indicators can include: Emotional distress: Do they appear tired or depressed, or show signs of self-harm? Loss of interest: Have they disengaged from daily activities or displayed low self-worth Confusion or abuse: Are they disoriented, confused, or exhibiting signs of mental abuse? Lack of control: Are they frequently with someone who dominates their decisions or movements? Behavioral shifts: Is the person suddenly angry, timid, fearful, or unusually submissive? It's important to know the indicators of those who may be in mental distress and remain vigilant to help those in need. By taking an active role, you're not just raising awareness, you're contributing to meaningful change by preventing the exploitation of those around you and protecting victims from further harm. Learn how to report human trafficking or call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. Interested in learning more? Blue Campaign offers additional information on impactful ways you can get involved. FROM THE FIELD An ICE HSI Milwaukee investigation led to the unsealing of an indictment on April 21, 2025, in Madison, Wisconsin, charging a Wisconsin man with seven counts of forced labor, conspiracy to commit forced labor, and seven counts of alien harboring for private financial gain. The indictment also charged the man's wife with seven counts of forced labor and conspiracy to commit forced labor. According to the indictment, between September 2015 and March 2018, Luis Abreu and his wife, Cybell Abreu, used threats of serious harm and abuse of the legal process to coerce seven unaccompanied alien male children and young men to perform labor and services. The indictment further alleges that Luis Abreu harbored the seven alien minor victims and either knew of or recklessly disregarded their legal immigration status. The defendants made their initial appearance before a judge in the Western District of Wisconsin and were charged with forced labor, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, up to five years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Harboring an undocumented alien for money or business reasons can lead to up to 10 years in prison. You can read more about the case here. AT THE CENTER CCHT Empowers Investigators with Advanced Tools, Trauma Support in Annual Human Trafficking Course In May, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Center for Countering Human Trafficking (CCHT) hosted its annual training event in Huntsville, Alabama, in partnership with ICE HSI's National Academy for Advanced Training and Leadership. The multi-day training hosted 55 ICE HSI special agents, supervisory special agents, and task force officers from ICE HSI field offices across the United States. "Investigating human trafficking is demanding work that requires persistence, compassion, and collaboration across every level of law enforcement and victim services," reflected CCHT Deputy Assistant Director (DAD)Tasha Reid. "Law enforcement plays a critical role in identifying victims, disrupting criminal networks, and ensuring traffickers are held accountable." The course equipped agents and task force officers with tools to build stronger cases, support victims, and navigate the complex human dynamics that often accompany trafficking investigations. The training covered victim protection, the Continued Presence program, the initiative to locate unaccompanied alien children, and insights from lived experience experts. It also introduced Investigators Maintain Purposeful Awareness to Combat Trafficking Trauma (IMPACTT), a wellness and employee resiliency initiative for professionals exposed to trauma. Highlighting the power of collaboration and ongoing support, participants were urged to maintain the connections they've made and to lean on the Center whenever needed. CONNECT WITH US:  @DHSBlueCampaign on X, Instagram and Facebook @DHS Center for Countering Human Trafficking on LinkedIn Project Homecoming Charter Flight Brings Self-Deporters to Honduras, Colombia 05/19/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs Project Homecoming Charter Flight Brings Self-Deporters to Honduras, Colombia Illegal Aliens, Using the CBP Home App, Chose to Return Home the Right Way    WASHINGTON – Today, The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) conducted a voluntary charter flight from Houston, TX, to Honduras and Colombia, bringing 64 participants who opted to self-deport back to their home countries.  This charter flight is one of the first actions the Department has taken to fulfill President Trump’s recent proclamation to create Project Homecoming.   This was a voluntary charter flight, not an ICE enforcement operation. All participants were offered the same benefits as any illegal alien who self-deports using the CBP Home App. They received travel assistance, a $1,000 stipend, and preserved the possibility they could one day return to the United States legally.    In Honduras, 38 participants were warmly welcomed by their home government and family members. They also benefited from the Honduran government’s “Hermano, Hermana, Vuelve a Casa” program, which includes an additional $100 bonus for people over 18, food vouchers, and assistance in finding employment.  In Colombia, 26 participants will be welcomed back by their families and representatives of the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Migration Colombia. The Colombian government provided social services from the Family Welfare Institute (ICBF), and the Department of Social Prosperity.     "Today, DHS conducted its first Project Homecoming charter flight of 64 individuals who voluntarily chose to self-deport to their home counties of Honduras and Colombia,” said Secretary Kristi Noem. “If you are here illegally, use the CBP Home App to take control of your departure and receive financial support to return home. If you don’t, you will be subjected to fines, arrest, deportation and will never allowed to return. If you are in this country illegally, self-deport NOW and preserve your opportunity to potentially return the legal, right way.”  # # # DHS Hits Back at Tim Walz's Dangerous Rhetoric Comparing ICE to Gestapo 05/19/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs DHS Hits Back at Tim Walz’s Dangerous Rhetoric Comparing ICE to Gestapo While politicians like Gov. Walz fight to protect criminal illegal aliens, ICE officers will continue risking their lives to arrest murderers, kidnappers, and pedophiles   WASHINGTON – Following Governor Tim Walz’s sickening rhetoric calling Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents “Trump’s modern-day Gestapo,” the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is setting the facts straight on the bravery of our ICE enforcement agents. Every day they risk their lives to arrest vicious criminal illegal aliens let into our country by the previous administration.   “Governor Walz’s comments comparing ICE agents to the Gestapo is sickening. This type of rhetoric and demonization of ICE officers has led to our officers facing a 413% increase in assaults,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “While politicians like Walz fight to protect criminal illegal aliens, our ICE officers will continue putting their lives and safety on the line to arrest murderers, kidnappers, and pedophiles that were let into our country by the previous administration’s open border policies.”  Below are just a few examples of violent criminal aliens ICE has arrested in Tim Walz’s Minnesota:  On May 1, 2025, ICE arrested Abdirashid Elmi, a 50-year-old illegal alien from Somalia. His criminal history includes convictions for murder, driving while intoxicated, and disorderly conduct.      On April 24th, ICE announced the arrest of Erick Martinez Mondragon, a 25-year-old illegal alien from Mexico and a member of the 18th Street gang. He served time for robbery and possession of a firearm.    On April 25, ICE announced the arrest of Marco Quizhpi Granda, an illegal criminal alien from Ecuador. He was previously convicted for criminal sexual conduct with a child.      On January 26, 2025, ICE arrested Octavio Juarez-Bonilla, an illegal alien from Mexico. He previously possessed child pornography on a work computer.      On February 19, 2025, ICE arrested Thailand Oh, a 25-year-old illegal alien from Laos. Oh’s criminal history includes convictions for domestic assault and weapons charges. Oh has had a final order of removal since April 5, 2024.      On May 9, 2025, ICE arrested Jorge Padilla Mendez, an illegal alien from Ecuador. He was previously arrested for robbery. Padilla was ordered removed by an immigration judge on August 28, 2024.        On May 9th, ICE announced the arrest of Abymahel Torres-Arriaga, a 36-year-old illegal alien from Mexico. He has a conviction for selling heroin/meth/fentanyl from the Goodhue County District Court in Red Wing, MN.       On May 8th ICE announced the arrest of Edgar David Felipe-Mendez, an illegal alien from Guatemala. He has a previous conviction of conspiracy to sell heroin/meth/fentanyl from the Goodhue County District Court in Red Wing, MN,       On April 30, 2025, ICE arrested Blong Yang, His past criminal convictions include carrying a concealed weapon and fourth degree sexual assault. Yang has had a final order of removal since April 19, 2023.     # # # ICE Arrests Man Charged with Vehicular Homicide in the Death of Minnesota Mom, Victoria Eileen Harwell 05/20/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs ICE Arrests Man Charged with Vehicular Homicide in the Death of Minnesota Mom, Victoria Eileen Harwell Minnesota refused to honor this criminal illegal alien’s ICE detainers twice     WASHINGTON – German Llangari Inga, an illegal alien from Ecuador, was charged with vehicular homicide that resulted in the death of Minnesota mom, Victoria Eileen Harwell in August of 2024.   Pictured: Victoria Eileen Harwell   According to court documents, Llangari Inga’s preliminary breathalyzer revealed his blood alcohol content was more than twice the legal limit for driving in Minnesota. A test of a blood sample collected by police about 2½ hours later found his blood alcohol content was 0.141%, still well above the legal limit.   Immediately following the crime, ICE placed a detainer for Llangari upon his arrest for criminal vehicular homicide on Aug. 4, 2024. The Hennepin County Jail refused to honor the detainer, and he was released without notification to ICE on August 6, 2024. Llangari was arrested again on May 10, 2025, on an outstanding warrant for vehicular homicide by the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office and ICE placed a detainer the same day. He was released May 13 without notification to ICE. ICE arrested Llangari Inga on May 16, 2025.    Pictured: German Llangari Inga   “Despite a lack of cooperation from local Minnesota authorities, ICE arrested criminal illegal alien German Llangari Inga. This criminal illegal alien has been evading prosecution for vehicular homicide that resulted in the death of Minnesota mom, Victoria Eileen Harwell,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Despite Hennepin County refusing to honor this criminal illegal alien’s detainer TWICE, ICE officers tracked him down and removed this criminal from Minnesota’s streets. Tim Walz should be thanking ICE not using despicable rhetoric. Remember sanctuary politicians are fighting for criminal illegal aliens. President Trump and Secretary Noem are fighting for the victims of illegal alien crime, like Eileen Harwell.”  # # # WATCH NOW: DHS Press Conference on Migrant Flight to South Sudan 05/21/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs WATCH NOW: DHS Press Conference on Migrant Flight to South Sudan WASHINGTON–Department of Homeland Security (DHS) hosts a press conference at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) headquarters in Washington D.C. DHS officials will address the recent migrant flight to South Sudan. DHS remains fully compliant with all applicable laws and court orders, ensuring the safe and lawful removal of individuals with no legal basis to remain in the United States. Senior DHS and ICE officials will provide updates on the operation and address media questions. You can watch the full press conference here. # # # DHS Sets the Record Straight on Media Frenzy over Deportation Flights for Worst of the Worst Including Murderers, Rapists, and Pedophiles 05/21/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs DHS Sets the Record Straight on Media Frenzy over Deportation Flights for Worst of the Worst Including Murderers, Rapists, and Pedophiles President Trump and Secretary Noem are working every day to get vicious criminals out of our country while activist judges are fighting to bring them back onto American soil WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security today hosted a press conference to set the record straight and to address the media’s misleading reporting on migrant flights to South Sudan. DHS conducted a deportation flight from Texas to remove some of the most barbaric, violent individuals illegally in the United States.  Now a federal judge in Massachusetts is trying to force the United States to bring these criminals back. “We are removing these convicted criminals from American soil so they can never hurt another American victim. It is absurd that an activist judge is trying to force the United States to bring back these uniquely barbaric monsters who present a clear and present threat to the safety of the American people,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “We have given the media the names of these monsters. I implore the media to stop doing the bidding of these criminals and to tell the stories of innocent Americans who have been victimized.” Below are the individuals ICE removed from American communities. Enrique ARIAS-Hierro, a Cuban national, was arrested by ICE on May 2, 2025. His criminal history includes convictions for homicide, armed robbery, false impersonation of official, kidnapping, robbery strong arm. On April 30, 2025, ICE arrested Cuban national, Jose Manuel RODRIGUEZ-QUINONES. He has been convicted of attempted first-degree murder with a weapon, battery and larceny, canine possession and trafficking. Thongxay NILAKOUT, a citizen of Laos, was arrested by ICE on January 26, 2025. NILAKOUT is Convicted of first-degree murder and robbery; sentenced to life confinement. On May 12, 2025, ICE arrested Mexican national, Jesus MUNOZ-Gutierrez. He is Convicted of second-degree murder; sentenced to life confinement. Dian Peter DOMACH, a citizen of South Sudan, was arrested by ICE on May 8, 2024. DOMACH is convicted of robbery and possession of a firearm, of possession of burglar’s tools and possession of defaced firearm and driving under the influence. Kyaw MYA, a citizen of Burma was arrested by ICE on February 18, 2025. MYA is convicted of Lascivious Acts with a Child-Victim less than 12 years of age; sentenced to 10 years confinement, paroled after 4 years. Nyo MYINT, a citizen of Burma was arrested by ICE on February 19, 2025. MYINT is convicted of first-degree sexual assault involving a victim mentally and physically incapable of resisting; sentenced to 12 years confinement. MYINT is also charged with aggravated assault-nonfamily strongarm.   On May 3, 2025, ICE arrested Tuan Thanh PHAN, a Vietnamese national. PHAN is Convicted of first-degree murder and second-degree assault; sentenced to 22 years confinement. # # # ICE Lodges Detainer for 24-year-old Illegal Alien Posing as Teenager in Ohio 05/21/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs ICE Lodges Detainer for 24-year-old Illegal Alien Posing as Teenager in Ohio WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security today announced that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) lodged a detainer for a 24-year-old illegal alien from Venezuela who posed as a teenager to attend an Ohio high school. On May 19, the Perrysburg Ohio Police Department arrested and charged Anthony Emmanuel Labrador-Sierra with forgery. On May 20, ICE issued a detainer. Mug shot from Wood County Jail. “Anthony Emmanuel Labrador-Sierra is a 24-year-old illegal alien from Venezuela who has been posing as teenager and attending Perrysburg High School in Ohio,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Labrador was arrested and charged with forgery by the Perrysburg Ohio Police Department on May 19 for using fake documents to become enrolled in the high school. ICE lodged a detainer to ensure that this criminal illegal alien is removed from this community and no longer able to prey on the students of Perrysburg High School. It is disturbing that a grown man would impersonate a teenager and infiltrate the lives of underage girls and boys to fool them into doing God knows what.” Labrador has illegally been in the U.S. since March 24, 2020. # # # DHS Reacts to Activist Judge Ruling to Halt the Deportation of Barbaric Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Murderers, Rapists, and Pedophiles  05/21/2025 DHS Reacts to Activist Judge Ruling to Halt the Deportation of Barbaric Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Murderers, Rapists, and Pedophiles    All eight of these heinous convicted criminals have final orders of removal    WASHINGTON – DHS conducted a deportation flight to remove some of the most barbaric, violent individuals illegally in the United States. All of these individuals had final orders of removal.  Now a federal judge in Massachusetts is halting their deportation and trying to force President Trump to bring these criminals back to American soil.     “This ruling is deranged. These depraved individuals have all had their day in court and been given final deportation orders. A reminder of who was on this plane: murderers, child rapists, an individual who raped a mentally & physically disabled person,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “The message this activist judge is sending to victims and their families is we don’t care. President Trump and Secretary Noem are working every day to get vicious criminals out of our country while activist judges are fighting to bring them back onto American soil.”    Below are the individuals ICE removed from American communities:     Enrique ARIAS-Hierro, a Cuban national, was arrested by ICE Miami on May 2, 2025. His criminal history includes convictions for homicide, armed robbery, false impersonation of official, kidnapping, robbery strong arm. He was issued a final order of removal on September 13, 1999.       On April 30, 2025, ICE Miami arrested Cuban national, Jose Manuel RODRIGUEZ-QUINONES. He has been convicted of attempted first degree murder with a weapon, battery and larceny, cocaine possession and trafficking. He was issued a final order of removal on December 4, 2012.       Thongxay NILAKOUT, a citizen of Laos, was arrested by ICE Los Angeles on January 26, 2025. NILAKOUT is Convicted of first-degree murder and robbery; sentenced to life confinement. He was issued a final order of removal on July 12, 2023.       On May 12, 2025, ICE Miami arrested Mexican national, Jesus MUNOZ-Gutierrez. He is Convicted of second-degree murder; sentenced to life confinement. He was issued a final order of removed on June 16, 2005.       Dian Peter DOMACH, a citizen of South Sudan, was arrested by ICE St. Paul on May 8, 2024. DOMACH is convicted of robbery and possession of a firearm, of possession of burglar’s tools and possession of defaced firearm and driving under the influence. He was issued a final order of removal on July 19, 2011.       Kyaw MYA, a citizen of Burma was arrested by ICE St. Paul on February 18, 2025. MYA is convicted of Lascivious Acts with a Child-Victim less than 12 years of age; sentenced to 10 years confinement, paroled after 4 years. He was issued a final order of removal on March 17, 2022.         Nyo MYINT, a citizen of Burma was arrested by ICE St. Paul on February 18, 2025. MYINT is convicted of first-degree sexual assault involving a victim mentally and physically incapable of resisting; sentenced to 12 years confinement. MYINT is also charged with aggravated assault-nonfamily strongarm. He was issued a final order of removal on August 17, 2023.         On May 3, 2025, ICE Seattle arrested Tuan Thanh PHAN, a Vietnamese national. PHAN is Convicted of first-degree murder and second-degree assault; sentenced to 22 years confinement. He was issued a final order of removal on June 17, 2009.       ###     Harvard University Loses Student and Exchange Visitor Program Certification for Pro-Terrorist Conduct 05/22/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs Harvard University Loses Student and Exchange Visitor Program Certification for Pro-Terrorist Conduct Harvard is being held accountable for collaboration with the CCP, fostering violence, antisemitism, and pro-terrorist conduct from students on its campus. WASHINGTON – Today, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem ordered DHS to terminate the Harvard University’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification. This means Harvard can no longer enroll foreign students and existing foreign students must transfer or lose their legal status. Harvard’s leadership has created an unsafe campus environment by permitting anti-American, pro-terrorist agitators to harass and physically assault individuals, including many Jewish students, and otherwise obstruct its once-venerable learning environment. Many of these agitators are foreign students. Harvard’s leadership further facilitated, and engaged in coordinated activity with the CCP, including hosting and training members of a CCP paramilitary group complicit in the Uyghur genocide. “This administration is holding Harvard accountable for fostering violence, antisemitism, and coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party on its campus,” said Secretary Noem. “It is a privilege, not a right, for universities to enroll foreign students and benefit from their higher tuition payments to help pad their multibillion-dollar endowments. Harvard had plenty of opportunity to do the right thing. It refused. They have lost their Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification as a result of their failure to adhere to the law. Let this serve as a warning to all universities and academic institutions across the country.” On April 16, 2025, Secretary Noem demanded Harvard provide information about the criminality and misconduct of foreign students on its campus. Secretary Noem warned refusal to comply with this lawful order would result in SEVP termination. This action comes after DHS terminated $2.7 million in DHS grants for Harvard last month.  Harvard University brazenly refused to provide the required information requested and ignored a follow up request from the Department’s Office of General Council. Secretary Noem is following through on her promise to protect students and prohibit terrorist sympathizers from receiving benefits from the U.S. government. Facts about Harvard’s toxic campus climate: A joint-government task force found that Harvard has failed to confront pervasive race discrimination and anti-Semitic harassment plaguing its campus. Jewish students on campus were subject to pervasive insults, physical assault, and intimidation, with no meaningful response from Harvard’s leadership. A protester charged for his role in the assault of a Jewish student on campus was chosen by the Harvard Divinity School to be the Class Marshal for commencement. Harvard’s own 2025 internal study on anti-Semitism revealed that almost 60% of Jewish students reported experiencing “discrimination, stereotyping, or negative bias on campus due to [their] views on current events.” In one instance, a Jewish student speaker at a conference had planned to tell the story of his Holocaust survivor grandfather finding refuge in Israel. Organizers told the student the story was not “tasteful” and laughed at him when he expressed his confusion. They said the story would have justified oppression. Meanwhile, Pro-Hamas student groups that promoted antisemitism after the October 7 attacks remained recognized and funded. Instead of protecting its students, Harvard has let crime rates skyrocket, enacted racist DEI practices, and accepted boatloads of cash from foreign governments and donors. Crime rates at Harvard increased by 55% from 2022 to 2023. From 2022 to 2023 aggravated assaults increased 295% and robberies increased 560% Harvard has adopted race-conscious hiring policies, potentially in violation of civil rights law. Harvard Received $151 Million From Foreign Governments Since January 2020 — making up more than 13 percent of the total $1.1 billion received from foreign donors over the same period. Harvard hosted and trained members of the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC), a CCP paramilitary group complicit in the Uyghur genocide, even after its 2020 designation on the U.S. Treasury’s Specially Designated Nationals List, with engagements continuing as recently as 2024. Harvard researchers collaborated with China-based academics on projects funded by an Iranian government agent and partnered with Chinese universities tied to military advancements, including aerospace and optics research, using U.S. Department of Defense funds. Harvard partnered with individuals linked to China’s defense-industrial base, including conducting robotics research with military applications. # # # DHS Releases Documents Detailing the Rap Sheets of 8 Criminal Illegal Aliens after Activist Judge Ruling Halts their Deportation 05/23/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs DHS Releases Documents Detailing the Rap Sheets of 8 Criminal Illegal Aliens after Activist Judge Ruling Halts their Deportation President Trump and Secretary Noem are getting vicious criminals out of our country while activist judges are fighting to bring them back onto American soil WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today released records on the eight convicted murderers and rapists that an activist judge halted their deportation. All eight of these barbaric criminal illegal aliens have final orders of removal and have been convicted in a court of law. These records reveal even more details about these illegal aliens' heinous crimes.   To download the documents, click here. “Today, DHS released the rap sheets for eight of these uniquely monstrous, criminal illegal aliens who have final deportation orders that the U.S. government is actively trying to deport. The American public should know the heinous crimes of these murderers, rapists, and pedophiles that this activist district court judge is trying to bring back to American soil,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “As he spits in the fact of victims, this Massachusetts district court judge is stalling the final removal of these barbaric individuals from the country and wants taxpayers to continue to foot the bill to keep these criminals in DHS custody overseas. It is deranged.”   Below are excerpts of the rap sheets of each of the criminal illegal aliens, detailing heinous crimes.   Nyo Myint: Convicted sexual assault of a mentally disabled woman  Nyo Myint, an illegal Burma and registered sex offender was arrested by ICE St. Paul on February 18, 2025. Myint is convicted of first-degree sexual assault involving a victim mentally and physically incapable of resisting; sentenced to 12 years confinement. Myint is also charged with aggravated assault-nonfamily strongarm. He was issued a final order of removal on August 17, 2023.  Enrique Arias-Hierro: Convicted homicide, armed robbery  Enrique Arias-Hierro, an illegal alien from Cuba, was arrested by ICE Miami on May 2, 2025. His criminal history includes convictions for homicide, armed robbery, false impersonation of official, kidnapping, robbery strong arm. He was issued a final order of removal on September 13, 1999.  Tuan Thanh Phan: Convicted of first-degree murder and second-degree assault  On May 3, 2025, ICE Seattle arrested Tuan Thanh Phan, an illegal alien from Vietnam. Phan is Convicted of first-degree murder and second-degree assault; sentenced to 22 years confinement. Prior to that, he was charged with possession of a dangerous weapon on a school facility as a juvenile in 1999. He was issued a final order of removal on June 17, 2009.  Jose Manuel Rodriquez-Quinones: Convicted of first-degree murder  On April 30, 2025, ICE Miami arrested Jose Manuel Rodriguez-Quinones, an illegal alien from Cuba. He has been convicted of attempted first-degree murder with a weapon, battery and larceny, cocaine possession and trafficking. Additionally, he was charged with attempted first-degree murder, trafficking and possessing cocaine, assault, credit card fraud, and theft. He was issued a final order of removal on December 4, 2012.  Dian Domach: Convicted of robbery   Dian Domach is an illegal alien from South Sudan that ICE first encountered in 2011 and was charged as a deportable alien. While in the U.S. Domach was convicted of robbery and possession of a firearm, of possession of burglar’s tools and possession of defaced firearm and driving under the influence. He was arrested by ICE on May 8, 2024, and was issued a final order of removal on July 19, 2011.  Thongxay Nilakout: Convicted Murderer Sentenced to Life in Prison   Thongxay Nilakout, an illegal alien from Laos, was arrested by ICE Los Angeles on January 26, 2025. Nilakout was convicted of first-degree murder and robbery; sentenced to life in prison. He was issued a final order of removal on July 12, 2023.  Jesus Munoz-Gutierrez: Convicted murderer sentenced to life in prison  On May 12, 2025, ICE Miami arrested Jesus Munoz-Gutierrez, an illegal alien from Mexico. He is convicted of second-degree murder; sentenced to life confinement. He was issued a final order of removed on June 16, 2005.  Kyaw Mya: Convicted of rape of a child  Kyaw Mya, an illegal alien from Burma was arrested by ICE St. Paul on February 18, 2025. Mya is convicted of Lascivious Acts with a Child-Victim less than 12 years of age; sentenced to 10 years confinement, paroled after 4 years. He was issued a final order of removal on March 17, 2022.  # # # ACLU Attempt to Block Criminal Illegal Alien Removals Fails Spectacularly 05/23/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs ACLU Attempt to Block Criminal Illegal Alien Removals Fails Spectacularly The ACLU’s dangerous campaign to keep violent criminals in the United States is falling apart. WASHINGTON – Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced that the American Civil Liberties Union’s (ACLU) latest attempt to wage lawfare against the Department was dropped. This lawsuit tried to prevent DHS from removing dangerous criminal illegal aliens from the country. “We are glad to see the ACLU’s meritless, frivolous, and frankly dangerous lawsuit fall apart,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “That they claim to be a civil rights organization while advocating on behalf of foreign criminal gang members is laughable. They clearly could care less about the Americans that these illegal alien criminals victimize.” The lawsuit was filed on March 1, 2025, by the ACLU on behalf of 10 illegal aliens who were being transferred to a detention facility at Guantanamo Bay in preparation for their removal. Most of these criminal illegal aliens were removed from the country, while the remaining volunteered to drop the suit. Fortunately, these criminals will no longer to be able to victimize American citizens. The Department will continue to use all available resources to remove the dangerous criminal illegal aliens who were let into our country by the previous administration. # # # You are subscribed to updates from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Manage Subscriptions  |  Privacy Policy  |  Help Connect with DHS: Facebook  |  X (Twitter)  |  Instagram  |  LinkedIn  |  Flickr  |  YouTube U.S. Department of Homeland Security www.dhs.gov This email was sent to ricklivermore.thankyoujesus@blogger.com on behalf of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security | DHS.gov