U.S. Department of Homeland Security Weekly Digest Bulletin

Secretary Noem Announces U.S. Coast Guard to Receive Paychecks Despite Government Shutdown Thanks to One Big Beautiful Bill Funding  10/14/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs  Secretary Noem Announces U.S. Coast Guard to Receive Paychecks Despite Government Shutdown Thanks to One Big Beautiful Bill Funding    WASHINGTON – U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem made the following announcement:     “While Democrats have played politics with military pay to fight for illegal aliens, the US Coast Guard has been defending our maritime borders, stopping the flow of deadly narcotics and illegal immigration into our country, and countering America's adversaries around the world.     “President Trump did not want any of our military to go without pay as a result of Democrats' political theater, and we at DHS worked out an innovative solution to make sure that didn't happen.   “Thanks to President Trump's leadership and the One Big Beautiful Bill, the brave men and women of the US Coast Guard will not miss a paycheck this week as they continue to carry out their critical homeland security and military missions.”  # # # Bounties Originating From Mexico Offered to Shoot ICE and CBP Officers in Chicago 10/14/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs Bounties Originating From Mexico Offered to Shoot ICE and CBP Officers in Chicago Criminal organizations in Mexico have begun offering thousands of dollars for the murder of federal law enforcement. Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has obtained credible intelligence indicating that Mexican criminals, in coordination with domestic extremist groups have placed targeted bounties on U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) personnel. These criminal networks have issued explicit instructions to U.S.-based sympathetics, including street gangs in Chicago, to monitor, harass, and assassinate federal agents. Specific details from ongoing investigations include: Spotter Networks: In neighborhoods like Chicago's Pilsen and Little Village, gang members affiliated with groups such as the Latin Kings have deployed "spotters" on rooftops equipped with firearms and radio communications. These individuals track ICE and CBP movements in real-time, relaying coordinates. This surveillance has enabled ambushes and disruptions during routine enforcement actions, including recent raids under Operation Midway Blitz. Tiered Bounty System: Cartels have disseminated a structured bounty program to incentivize violence against federal personnel, with payouts escalating based on rank and action taken: $2,000 for gathering intelligence or doxxing agents (including photos and family details). $5,000–$10,000 for kidnapping or non-lethal assaults on standard ICE/CBP officers. Up to $50,000 for the assassination of high-ranking officials. In Portland and Chicago, Antifa groups have provided logistical support such as pre-staged protest supplies, doxxing of agent identities, and on-the-ground interference to shield cartel-linked individuals from deportation. “These criminal networks are not just resisting the rule of law, they are waging an organized campaign of terror against the brave men and women who protect our borders and communities,” said Secretary Kristi Noem. “Our agents are facing ambushes, drone surveillance, and death threats, all because they dare to enforce the laws passed by Congress. We will not back down from these threats, and every criminal, terrorist, and illegal alien will face American justice.” DHS will not be deterred by these threats and calls on sanctuary state and local leaders to cease policies that embolden criminals. The public is urged to report suspicious activities—such as rooftop surveillance or organized protests blocking federal operations—to the DHS Tip Line at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE or via the ICE website. # # #  Despite Democrats' Government Shut Down, ICE Arrests Continue Over Holiday Weekend 10/14/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs  Despite Democrats’ Government Shut Down, ICE Arrests Continue Over Holiday Weekend Without pay, our law enforcement arrested the worst of the worst including child sex abusers, murderers, violent repeat offenders, and drug traffickers WASHINGTON – While the Democrats’ government shutdown continues, they are not deterring U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) law enforcement officers from keeping our streets safe and arresting the WORST OF THE WORST criminal illegal aliens over the holiday weekend. “While many Americans enjoyed the holiday weekend, our brave law enforcement worked without pay because of the Democrats’ government shutdown and continued to arrest the worst of the worst criminals-- risking their lives to arrest murderers, pedophiles, and other serial criminals,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “We will not allow a government shutdown to stop us from making America safe again.” Worst of the worst arrests over the weekend include: Silvino Juan Martinez-Montesinos, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of course of sexual conduct against a child in the first degree in New York County, New York. Ruben Garibay Yanez, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convictions for lewd lascivious acts with a child under 14 in Lancaster, California. Aroldo Zavala-Murillo, a criminal illegal alien from Honduras, convicted of lewd lascivious acts with a child under 14 or 15 in Los Angeles, California. Jose Hernandez-Duran, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of indecent liberties with a child in Johnston County, North Carolina. Boris Selioutsky, a criminal illegal alien from Russia, convicted of possession of child pornography transported in interstate commerce in the Eastern District of New York. Elder Serrano-Quintanilla, a criminal illegal alien from Honduras, convicted of lewd and lascivious battery on a child in Little Rock, Arkansas. Saul Penuelas-Gutierrez, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico and San Clemente Varrio Chico gang member, convicted of murder in the second degree in Santa Ana, CA. Yuliana Fernandez-Ledezma, a criminal illegal alien from Venezuela, convicted of abandoning or endangering a child in San Antonio, Texas. Felipe Nava-Granados, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of assault and battery on a detention officer and attempted escape in Tulsa County, Oklahoma. Khamsy Symoungkhoune, a criminal illegal alien from Laos, convicted of aggravated assault, assault, firearms offense, larceny, and distribution of ecstasy in Ottawa County, Michigan. Gregoria Salaz-Beltran, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted four times for DWI in San Antonio, Texas, and convicted two times for kill/poison/serious bodily injury animal cruelty in Waco, Texas. Duzzlie Rigby, a criminal illegal alien from The Bahamas and national of the Turks and Caicos Islands, with 17 convictions including armed robbery, assault, battery, and carrying concealed weapon in Florida. Victor Rodriguez-Mercado, a criminal illegal alien from Ecuador, convicted of conspiracy to distribute and possess, with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine while onboard a vessel subject to the jurisdiction of the United States in the U.S. District Court Florida. Urvano Velasquez-Diaz, a criminal illegal alien from Guatemala, convicted of DUI and carrying a concealed weapon in Montgomery, Alabama. Ruth Gonzalez-Salazar, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of smuggling aliens in Brackettville, Texas. Jaime Barajas, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances: fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine in the United States District Court Southern District of Illinois. Omar Adalberto Gonzalez-Peguero, a criminal illegal alien from the Dominican Republic, convicted of forgery - alter/change writing, forgery-uttering forged document, and bad checks, money orders/elect in Patterson, New Jersey. Omar Andrade-Galvez, a criminal illegal alien from Honduras, convicted of unlawful restraint in Austin, Texas. Mario Godinez-Lopez, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of theft of property in Georgetown, Texas. # # # U.S. Coast Guard's Operation Pacific Viper Records Seizure of 100,000 Pounds of Cocaine 10/15/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs U.S. Coast Guard's Operation Pacific Viper Records Seizure of 100,000 Pounds of Cocaine Operation Pacific Viper is stopping drugs before they reach American shores WASHINGTON — Today, the Department of Homeland Security recognizes the United States Coast Guard (USCG) for seizing more than 100,000 pounds of cocaine in the Eastern Pacific Ocean since launching Operation Pacific Viper in early August. Operation Pacific Viper is a surge in forces to the Eastern Pacific to stop the cartels and criminal organizations – cutting off drugs and human smuggling before it reaches American shores. The operation has averaged about 1,600 lbs. of cocaine interdicted daily since it started. Its new milestone total is the result of 34 total interdictions since August. "Operation Pacific Viper has proven to be a crucial weapon in the fight against foreign drug traffickers and cartels in Latin America and has sent a clear message that we will disrupt, dismantle, and destroy their deadly business exploits wherever we find it," U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said. "In cutting off the flow of these deadly drugs, the Coast Guard is saving countless American lives and delivering on President Trump and Secretary Noem's promise to Make America Safe Again and reestablish our maritime dominance." "The Coast Guard's seizure of over 100,000 pounds of cocaine, in such a short timeframe, is a remarkable achievement," said Rear Adm. Jeffrey Novak, deputy commander of U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area. "When we say the Coast Guard is accelerating counter-narcotics operations, we mean it. Alongside our partners and allies, our maritime fighting force is scouring drug smuggling routes in the Eastern Pacific and dismantling narco-terrorist networks. We are complementing the Coast Guard's unique law enforcement authorities with cutting-edge capabilities to stop the flow of deadly drugs that threaten U.S. communities. As we mark our interdiction of 100,000 pounds, we are already working towards the next milestone."  In August, Operation Pacific Viper yielded the Coast Guard's largest-ever drug offload in its history. The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) Hamilton offloaded over 76,000 pounds of illegal drugs, valued at $473 million, at Port Everglades, which included approximately 61,740 pounds of cocaine and approximately 14,400 pounds of marijuana. Earlier this week, Secretary Noem announced an innovative solution to allow USCG personnel to get paid despite the government shutdown. Thanks to President Trump and Secretary Noem's leadership and the One Big Beautiful Bill, the brave men and women of the USCG continuing to carry out these critical operations will not miss a paycheck. Operation Pacific Viper is an ongoing operation, and, under the leadership of Secretary Noem, the men and women of the Coast Guard will continue deploying overwhelming force to secure the Homeland from drug traffickers and transnational criminal organizations. The crew of the USCGC Seneca (WMEC 906) recovers bales of cocaine after a suspected drug smuggling vessel capsized in the Pacific Ocean, Sept. 17, 2025. Seneca's crew worked alongside interagency partners to interdict illicit narcotics in the international waters in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Coast Guard photo) USCGC Midgett intercepts suspected go-fast vessel during counter narcotics operations in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by ENS Harlan Brady) # # # Meet Some of the Worst of the Worst at the Broadview ICE Facility in Illinois 10/15/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs Meet Some of the Worst of the Worst at the Broadview ICE Facility in Illinois   Governor Pritzker and violent rioters want these thugs released onto Illinois streets  WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) highlighted some of the worst of the worst currently detained inside the Broadview ICE facility. These illegal aliens who were arrested as part of Operation Midway Blitz were convicted of crimes including assault with a deadly weapon, felony robbery, drug possession, and driving under the influence.  Over the past month, rioters have swarmed the Broadview ICE facility and Chicago streets. They have assaulted law enforcement, attacked law enforcement with vehicles, thrown tear gas cans, slashed tires of cars, been arrested with firearms in their possession, blocked the entrance of the building, and trespassed on private property. During this time, police under J.B. Pritzker's sanctuary jurisdiction refused to assist federal law enforcement with violent crowds. Now, because of an activist judge, DHS is being forced to take down a fence outside the facility that was put up to protect law enforcement and detainees.   Thankfully, President Trump called the National Guard to protect our federal law enforcement and federal property from violent rioters and domestic terrorists.   "Despite incessant lies from Governor J.B. Pritzker, Broadview is housing the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens including those convicted of assault with a deadly weapon, felony robbery, drug possession, and driving under the influence," said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. "These are the criminals Governor Pritzker and violent rioters want released onto Illinois streets. We won't let this violence deter us from arresting the worst of the worst and making Illinois safe again. Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, we are getting criminals off our streets and restoring law and order."   Some of the worst of the worst currently at the Broadview ICE facility include:   Jose Patino Juarez, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico convicted of disorderly conduct, arrested for assault, and with two pending charges of assault and obstructing justice.   Isaias Quintanilla Guzman, a criminal illegal alien from El Salvador convicted of two counts of felony robbery and issued a final order of removal on February 14, 2025.  Martin Guereca-Martinez, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of assault and with three pending charges of aggravated assault with a weapon, assault, and damage to property.  Yuliana Gonzalez Landeros, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of theft in a business setting of greater than $10,000-$100,000.  Guadalupe Leonides Caneda, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of simple assault and with two pending charges of assault and driving under the influence of liquor.  Jorge Carapia Mandujano, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of under the influence of a controlled substance and two counts of drug possession, arrested for drug possession, and a third pending charge for drug possession.  # # # ICE Arrests Criminal Illegal Alien in Virginia Who Is Wanted for Murder in Mexico 10/15/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs ICE Arrests Criminal Illegal Alien in Virginia Who Is Wanted for Murder in Mexico 70% of ICE arrests have been of criminal illegal aliens convicted or charged with a crime in the US, those who committed crimes in foreign countries are not accounted for in that statistic WASHINGTON – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) today announced the arrest of Luis Bautista-Perez, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico with an active arrest warrant for aggravated homicide issued by the Government of Mexico. On October 12, 2025, ICE conducted a targeted enforcement action resulting in his arrest in Sterling, Virginia.   Bautista-Perez will remain in ICE custody pending removal proceedings. Luis Bautista-Perez entered the U.S. illegally at an unknown date and time.  “Luis Bautista-Perez evaded justice by fleeing Mexico and hiding in plain sight in Virginia. Thanks to the brave men and women of ICE, this wanted murderer is off the streets of Virginia,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Politicians like Schumer, Pritzker, and sanctuary politicians across Virginia protect these criminal illegal aliens over the safety of Americans. Under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Noem, this country is no longer a safe haven for violent, dangerous criminals.”   The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will not let the Democrats’ government shutdown prevent our law enforcement officers from securing our nation from the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens. ICE law enforcement officers—who are working without pay because of the shutdown—will continue these kinds of targeted operations to remove murderers, pedophiles, and violent criminals from our streets to make America safe again.  # # # During Democrats Government Shutdown, ICE Law Enforcement Officers Are Risking Their Lives Without Pay to Arrest the Worst of the Worst 10/15/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs During Democrats' Government Shutdown, ICE Law Enforcement Officers Are Risking Their Lives Without Pay to Arrest the Worst of the Worst  WASHINGTON – Despite the Democrats' government shutdown, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) continues to arrest and remove the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens from American communities including pedophiles, drug traffickers, and aggravated robbers.   "Our brave law enforcement officers' risk their lives to arrest pedophiles, murderers, drug traffickers, and other violent thugs from American communities. Not only are these law enforcement officers risking their lives amid a 1000% increase in assault against them, bounties on their heads and threats to their families from foreign and domestic terrorists, but they are now working without pay because of the Democrats' government shutdown," said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. "It's time for Democrats to end the government shutdown, so our ICE officers can get their paychecks as they work to make America safe again."  Yesterday's worst of the worst arrests from across the country include:   German Morachel-Lopez, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of course sexual conduct against a child in Queens, New York.   Isidro Carrera-Rodriguez, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted for third degree assault and offensive touching in New Castle, Delaware.   Adrian Alberto Morales-Maldonado, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of aggravated robbery in Hidalgo County, Texas.   Wenceslao Alvarez-Alvarez, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, with convictions for importation of a controlled substance and conspiracy to commit money laundering in the United States District Court, Northern District of Georgia, Atlanta.   Edgar Ivan Ponce-Aldaco, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of conspiracy to possess with the intent to sell or distribute more than 50 kilos of marijuana in Comstock, Texas.   # # # DHS Sets the Record Straight on Vehicle-Ramming Attack and 'Kidnapping' Lie About American Teenager Who Assaulted Law Enforcement 10/15/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs DHS Sets the Record Straight on Vehicle-Ramming Attack and 'Kidnapping' Lie About American Teenager Who Assaulted Law Enforcement DHS did not "kidnap" an American teenager but did arrest individuals who attacked officers WASHINGTON – On Tuesday, October 14, as Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents were conducting an immigration enforcement operation in Chicago, an illegal alien used his vehicle as a weapon and rammed a Border Patrol vehicle, attempting to flee the scene. Border Patrol pursued the suspects and managed to bring them to a stop after utilizing an authorized precision immobilization technique (PIT) maneuver. Agents apprehended and arrested the two illegal aliens from Venezuela who attacked law enforcement. While agents were trying to secure the scene, a violent mob surrounded law enforcement and began throwing objects at them, necessitating the use of crowd control measures and resulting in multiple arrests. One of the assailants was a U.S. citizen teenager who threw an egg at a CBP officer's head. He was also seen gathering rocks, admitted without questioning that he had thrown an object at the officers, and was arrested for assault. CBP also arrested another individual for throwing chemical munitions back at agents. Despite the facts of the case, the mainstream media has falsely claimed that CBP "kidnapped" the teenager. Falsehoods like these are responsible for the rise in violence against law enforcement, including a 1000% increase in assaults against ICE officers. "A US teenager was arrested for assaulting law enforcement in Chicago—any claims that CBP 'kidnapped' a U.S. citizen and held him in a warehouse are bizarre and categorically FALSE. These are more disgusting smears peddled by the media and billboard law firms," said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. "This attack is not an isolated incident, and it reflects a growing and dangerous trend of illegal aliens violently resisting arrest, and agitators and criminals ramming cars into our law enforcement officers. Meanwhile those same federal law enforcement officers are going without pay thanks to Democrats' government shutdown. The fact that this attack was carried out by two illegal aliens highlights the need for federal law enforcement to continue doing their job of enforcing the laws of our nation across the country." The driver of the vehicle in the ramming attack, Luis Gerardo Pirela-Ramirez, was arrested for assault on a federal agent. An illegal alien from Venezuela, he had previously been ordered to be removed from the United States by an immigration judge in August of 2024. Pirela-Ramirez was taken to the hospital after complaining of pain in his neck and leg. The passenger, Yonder Enrique Tenefe-Perez, also an illegal alien from Venezuela who was previously apprehended by Border Patrol in 2024, was also arrested as an accessory to the assault on federal agents. The driver, Luis Gerardo Pirela-Ramirez, arrested for assault on a federal agent The passenger, Yonder Enrique Tenefe-Perez, arrested for accessory to assault # # # DHS Set to Impose New Fee for Illegal Aliens Paroled into the U.S. to Stop Rampant Abuse of the Parole Program 10/16/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs DHS Set to Impose New Fee for Illegal Aliens Paroled into the U.S. to Stop Rampant Abuse of the Parole Program The fee will hold foreign nationals accountable and prevent rampant fraud and abuse WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the implementation of a new $1,000 fee for aliens paroled into the United States to institute accountability and prevent rampant fraud of the parole system. Under Secretary Kristi Noem's leadership, DHS is returning common sense and integrity to our immigration system. The fee, effective October 16, 2025, aims to strengthen oversight of the immigration parole system and deter its misuse. "The Biden Administration abused America's immigration system and turned parole into a de facto amnesty program, thereby allowing millions of unvetted illegal aliens into the U.S., no questions asked, to the detriment of all Americans," Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said. "Through the implementation of this new fee, President Trump and Secretary Noem are guaranteeing that foreign nationals, who wish to stay here, have skin in the game and do not exploit the system. This immigration parole fee notice is another tool to stop the degradation of our immigration system and restore law and order to our country." Fee Implementation and Collection The $1,000 parole fee applies to all aliens granted parole under INA Section 212(d)(5)(A), including initial parole, re-parole, parole in place, or parole from DHS custody, unless they qualify for one of ten statutory exemptions. The fee is triggered upon the actual grant and effectuation of parole, not upon filing a parole request or receiving a travel document. This means that any parole granted on or after October 16, 2025, is subject to the fee, even if the request was submitted earlier. The fee will be collected by the three DHS components responsible for parole decisions: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Fee Adjustments and Compliance The $1,000 parole fee may be adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index. DHS will publish an annual notice in the Federal Register to announce adjusted fees. # # # In JB Pritzker's Illinois, Illegal Alien Is Working as a Sworn Police Office with Badge,  Gun, and a Pension 10/16/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs In Governor J.B. Pritzker’s Illinois, Illegal Alien Is Working as a Sworn Police Office with Badge,  Gun, and a Pension It is a felony for an illegal alien to possess a firearm WASHINGTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) today announced the arrest of Radule Bojovic, an illegal alien from Montenegro, who was working as a sworn police officer with the Hanover Park Police Department in sanctuary state Illinois. Radule Bojovic was encountered during a targeted enforcement action as part of Operation Midway Blitz. Hanover Park Police Department records confirm, Radule Bojovic was approved by the Pension Fund Board of Trustees in January 2025 and was eligible to receive a starting salary of $78,955.70. Additional records indicate his 2025 earnings cost taxpayers $205,707 including $9,276 for FICA/Medicare taxes. “Governor J.B. Pritzker doesn’t just allow violent illegal aliens to terrorize Illinois’s communities, he allows illegal aliens to work as sworn police officers. Radule Bojovic violated our nation’s laws and was living ILLEGALLY in the United States for 10 years—what kind of police department gives criminal illegal aliens badges and guns? It's a felony for aliens to even possess a firearm. A so-called law enforcement officer who is actively breaking the law,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Under President Trump and Secretary Noem ICE is restoring law and order. Criminal illegal aliens have NO PLACE in our communities, especially on our police forces.” Bojovic overstayed a B2 tourist visa that required him to depart the U.S. on March 31, 2015. Over a decade later, he was still illegally in the U.S. On September 8, the Department of Homeland Security started Operation Midway Blitz in honor of Katie Abraham who was killed in a drunk driving hit-and-run car wreck caused by criminal illegal alien Julio Cucul-Bol in Illinois. The operation targets criminal illegal aliens who flocked to Chicago and Illinois seeking protection under the sanctuary policies of Governor Pritzker.   # # # ICYMI: Coast Guard Save Dozens of Lives During Catastrophic Floods in Alaska 10/16/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs ICYMI: Coast Guard Save Dozens of Lives During Catastrophic Floods in Alaska The heroic efforts of the Coast Guard saved dozens of lives ANCHORAGE, ALASKA – After Western Alaska was struck by catastrophic flooding caused by Typhoon Halong over the weekend, the heroic men and women of the United States Coast Guard jumped into action to rescue dozens of victims. As of October 13, The U.S. Coast Guard air crews have rescued 34 people – 18 from Kwigillingok and 16 people in Kipnuk – all of whom were brought to shelter safely and in a stable condition. The Coast Guard also successfully helped evacuate an additional 28 people from a temporary shelter. Coast Guard crews conducted a total of 8.5 hours of aerial searches and searched a total of 88 square miles. "The quick, lifesaving work of the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard during these floods is a testament to the Service's motto: Semper Paratus, always ready," said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. "Our Coast Guard members are heroes who work around the clock, around the country, and around the world to save lives and protect our homeland. It is shameful that Democrats' government shutdown would have forced them to go without pay this week if President Trump and Secretary Noem had not worked out an innovative way around it. Our hearts go out to those impacted by the horrible flooding in Alaska." The Coast Guard continues to offer support to local, state and federal partners in support of ongoing storm response operations. Coast Guard crews have deployed to conduct ports and waterways assessments, pollution assessments, and repair damaged maritime aids to navigation in the region. When natural disasters strike, the Coast Guard is often one of the first agencies on the scene, rescuing victims and providing aid. During catastrophic flooding in Texas in July, the Coast Guard rescued hundreds of people. Rescue Diver Scott Ruskan and his aircrew alone saved 169 people and brought them to safety. Anyone in need of rescue should contact the Alaska Rescue Coordination Center at 907-551-7230. U.S. Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter aircrews conduct overflights of Kipnuk, Alaska, after coastal flooding impacted several western Alaska communities, Oct. 12, 2025. The Coast Guard continues to support the state of Alaska's response efforts in impacted communities. (U.S. Coast Guard photo courtesy of Air Station Kodiak) # # # On the 16th Day of the Democrats' Government Shutdown, ICE Law Enforcement Continues to Work Without Pay to Arrest the Worst of the Worst Pedophiles, Rapists, and Drug Traffickers 10/16/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs On the 16th Day of the Democrats’ Government Shutdown, ICE Law Enforcement Continues to Work Without Pay to Arrest the Worst of the Worst Pedophiles, Rapists, and Drug Traffickers WASHINGTON – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) today announced the arrest of several worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens convicted of horrendous crimes including rape, sex crimes against children, and intent to distribute cocaine. “Despite the Democrats’ government shutdown. The brave men and women of ICE are working WITHOUT PAY and are STILL risking their lives to remove rapists, pedophiles and drug traffickers off of our streets,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Enough is enough. Democrats need to re-open the government, so our brave law enforcement can be paid.” Some of the worst of the worst arrested yesterday include: Darwin Gonzalez-Mendoza, a criminal illegal alien from Ecuador, convicted for rape in Carmel, New York. ICE Buffalo arrested Cuauhtemoc Cardenas-Rodriguez, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted for rape in Queens, New York. ICE Houston arrested Juan Jose Moreno-Renteria, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted for indecency with a child - under 14 sexual contact in Webb County, Texas. Edilberto Rincon, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted for sexual abuse in Cook County, Illinois. Varinder Singh, a criminal illegal alien from India, convicted for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine in Boston, Massachusetts. # # # In Virginia, ICE Arrests One of El Salvador's "Most Wanted" Fugitives and MS-13 Gang Leader Wanted for Murder 10/16/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs In Virginia, ICE Arrests One of El Salvador’s “Most Wanted” Fugitives and MS-13 Gang Leader Wanted for Murder WASHINGTON – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) today announced the arrest of MS-13 gang leader Ismael Enrique Mendoza Flores, aka “El Calaco,” wanted in El Salvador for aggravated homicide and illicit associations and previously charged in the U.S. with unauthorized use of a vehicle. ICE arrested the subject on the morning of October 2, 2025, in Alexandria, Virginia due to an active arrest warrant for murder in El Salvador. Mendoza Flores is listed as part of the Salvadoran National Police “Most Wanted Gang Members” Program. He was previously arrested in Virginia on August 23, 2025, for the unauthorized use of a vehicle. “Our brave men and women of ICE arrested one of El Salvator’s Most Wanted Fugitives off of the streets of Virginia. This MS-13 gang member was wanted for murder,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “These are the types of criminal illegal aliens that sanctuary politicians across Virginia are protecting as they demonize law enforcement. President Trump and Secretary Noem are not going to allow gang members to terrorize American citizens.” Ismael Enrique Mendoza Flores “El Calaco” He claims to have entered the U.S. as a juvenile in 2015 under the Obama Administration. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will not let the Democrats’ government shutdown prevent our law enforcement officers from executing the critical mission of securing our nation from the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens. # # # DHS Debunks Mainstream Media Lies About "Father of Marine" with a Violent Criminal Rap Sheet 10/16/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs DHS Debunks Mainstream Media Lies About "Father of Marine" with a Violent Criminal Rap Sheet This criminal illegal alien was arrested for violent offenses including domestic violence and aggravated assault WASHINGTON – Today, DHS debunked mainstream media hoaxes about a criminal illegal alien who was previously arrested for violence and aggravated assault before being apprehended by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Esteban Rios is a Mexican national who illegally entered the United States multiple times – a felony – and was charged with domestic violence and aggravated assaulted with a deadly weapon in 2020. "This criminal illegal alien has charges for domestic violence, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and has zero legal status to be in the United States in the first place," said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. "Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, if you break the law, you will face the consequences. Criminal illegal aliens are NOT welcome in the United States." In addition to his domestic abuse charges, Rios illegally entered the United States and was deported in 1999. He illegally reentered again and voluntarily left in 2005 after being caught. He illegally reentered a THIRD time and was ordered removed by an immigration judge in 2020. Media outlets like the Associated Press and The New York Post have deliberately obscured these facts about Rios, falsely claiming that he had no criminal record. He remained within the United States illegally for nearly 3 decades, illegally reentering multiple times after being ordered removed. The media also falsely claimed that both Rios and his wife had a valid work authorization to stay in the United States. Neither individual had any legal basis to stay within the country. DHS is a law enforcement agency, and it will uphold the rule of law. Criminal illegal aliens are not welcome in the United States and are subject to detention and removal. # # # DHS Sets the Record Straight on 13-year-old with Gang Ties with Dangerous Weapons Charge for Allegedly Carrying Gun and Long Knife in Massachusetts 10/16/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs DHS Sets the Record Straight on 13-year-old with Gang Ties with Dangerous Weapons Charge for Allegedly Carrying Gun and Long Knife in Massachusetts According to the police report, the teenager showed a fellow student the handgun and said he was going “shoot and kill” another student WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today released the following statement setting the record straight on misleading reporting on the arrest of a Brazilian teen with ties to the gang 33—a Brazilian criminal ring—in Everett, Massachusetts. Some of the misleading headlines are below: On October 9, 2025, the Everett Police Department arrested a 13-year-old alien from Brazil on dangerous weapons charges for allegedly possessing a firearm and a 5-7-inch knife.    According to the police report, the teenager showed a fellow student the handgun and said he was going “shoot and kill” another student. Local officials contacted federal law enforcement and notified them of the arrest. On the same day, ICE Boston officers took the teen into custody. On October 10, 2025, ICE transported the teen to the Northwest Regional Juvenile Detention Center in Winchester, Virginia. “Here are the facts: this individual and suspected gang member posed a public safety threat with an extensive rap sheet, including violent assault with a dangerous weapon, battery, breaking and entering, and destruction of property.  According to the police report, he showed the handgun in his waistband to another student and said was planning on killing a fellow student,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia Mclaughlin. “Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, federal law enforcement is restoring commonsense and law-and-order to our streets. This public safety threat will stay in juvenile detention pending further proceedings.” The teen is mentioned 11 prior police complaints filed by Everett PD for a laundry list of criminal behavior, including ‘flash mob’ style shoplifting, consuming alcohol underage, breaking and entering, vandalism, theft, fighting and more. On May 14, 2025, the Middlesex County Juvenile Court in Cambridge, arraigned the teen for knowingly receiving stolen property, breaking and entering and malicious destruction of property. While on pre-trial probation in July, he was arraigned for assault and battery and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon.     On September 24, 2021, the teen illegally entered the United States near San Luis, Arizona with a family unit. He was released into the U.S. under the Biden Administration. # # # ICYMI: Angel Mother Jennifer Bos Pens Op-Ed Detailing Sanctuary Policies that Failed Her Daughter Who Was Murdered by a Criminal Illegal Alien 10/17/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs ICYMI: Angel Mother Jennifer Bos Pens Op-Ed Detailing Sanctuary Policies that Failed Her Daughter Who Was Murdered by a Criminal Illegal Alien “To this day, Gov. Pritzker has never reached out to me — not to offer condolences, not to acknowledge Megan’s death, and certainly not to take responsibility for the policies that failed her.” - Jennifer Bos WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today highlighted an op-ed penned by angel mother Jennifer Bos detailing how sanctuary policies in Illinois protected the criminal illegal alien charged in her daughter’s  death. Jennifer Bos in the Federalist: Illinois Released The Illegal Alien Accused Of Abusing My Daughter’s Body, So I Had To Report Him To ICE Myself “President Donald Trump is in an ongoing struggle with Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, with Pritzker seeking to slander or stymie every effort Trump makes to restore law and order in the streets of Chicago and in Illinois more broadly. That struggle for law and order is personal for me. My daughter died after allegedly being left unresponsive in the home of an illegal alien from Mexico, and Illinois’ politicians put him right back on the streets. “On Feb. 19, 2025, my daughter Megan, a vibrant 37-year-old and mother of two, went missing in Waukegan, Illinois, a few weeks after her release from jail on an old warrant related to her battle with addiction. To our horror, she was located, deceased, on April 10, 2025. “For nearly two months, her body lay hidden in a bleach-filled trash can in the yard of Jose Luis Mendoza-Gonzalez, an illegal immigrant, just 100 feet from where I and volunteers had searched — from where we had hung missing persons posters in the weeks prior. We had even knocked on his door, just 10 days after I reported her missing … a mere tenth of a mile from where she had last been seen. ... "Illinois failed Megan long before her death, actively undermining meaningful support to empower her recovery, and the activist laws let her perpetrator walk free." “The Pretrial Fairness Act, part of Illinois’s 2021 Safety, Accountability, Fairness and Equity-Today legislation, promised reform by eliminating cash bail and prioritizing pretrial release. In Megan’s case, it delivered neither safety nor fairness. The law, touted by Gov. Pritzker as ‘historic reform to ensure pretrial detainment is determined by the danger an individual poses to the community instead of by their ability to pay their way out of jail,’ allowed the man who allegedly concealed and abused my daughter’s body to be released in less than 24 hours. He was released unmonitored, to his home, which is also the crime scene. ... “When I learned of the undocumented suspect’s release, I was consumed by grief and outrage. My feelings were echoed by statements from state leaders and local politicians, equally as dumbfounded and enraged as I was. Mendoza-Gonzalez, who confessed to authorities that he hid my daughter’s body, bathing in bleach for months, was free because of Illinois’ sanctuary policies and the SAFE-T Act’s leniency. Desperate, I did everything I could to elevate Megan’s story and demand justice. I flew to D.C. for the signing of the HALT Fentanyl Act, and I had the chance to share my story with President Trump, who responded, “Watch what happens.” ... “To this day, Gov. Pritzker has never reached out to me — not to offer condolences, not to acknowledge Megan’s death, and certainly not to take responsibility for the policies that failed her. Illinois’s sanctuary policies restrict local law enforcement from cooperating with ICE, even for violent criminals. These laws, paired with the SAFE-T Act and Pretrial Fairness Act, create a system where individuals like the man who allegedly concealed my daughter’s death and hid her corpse slip through — endangering communities and eroding trust. “Megan’s story should have sparked a reckoning about supporting addiction recovery and ensuring justice for victims. Instead, Illinois politicians hid behind sanctuary rhetoric, deflecting blame and protecting a broken system. For Megan and others failed by sanctuary policies and soft-on-crime reforms, we must demand a system where justice comes before politics. Watch what happens when we put victims first.” ... Read more about Megan’s case and Jennifer’s long fight for justice in the full op-ed here. # # # During Democrats' Government Shutdown, ICE Continues to Arrest the Worst of the Worst Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Pedophiles, Murderers, and Drug Traffickers 10/17/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs During Democrats’ Government Shutdown, ICE Continues to Arrest the Worst of the Worst Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Pedophiles, Murderers, and Drug Traffickers Nothing will slow ICE down, not even the Democrats’ government shutdown WASHINGTON – Despite the Democrats’ government shutdown, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers continue to arrest the worst of the worst including criminal illegal aliens convicted of sexual assault of a child, murder, importation of cocaine, and other horrific crimes. “The Democrats’ government shutdown is not slowing ICE down from removing the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens from our streets,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Yesterday, some of the dirtbags arrested included pedophiles, murderers, and drug traffickers. These criminal illegal aliens have no business remaining in this country to terrorize innocent Americans. ICE will NOT stop making America safe again even during the Democrats’ government shutdown.” Among today’s worst of the worst arrested are: Sergio Ivaan Martinez, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted for aggravated sexual assault of a child in Dallas, Texas. Chay Jungle Her, a criminal illegal alien from Laos, convicted for homicide-murder and assault with intent to do great bodily harm in Flint, Michigan. Jose Andres Gomez-Matarrita, a criminal illegal alien from Costa Rica, convicted for assault by strangulation and second-degree kidnapping in New Hanover County, North Carolina. Enzo David Fernandez-Morales, a criminal illegal alien from Venezuela, convicted for engaging in organized criminal activity in Hays County, Texas. Leonardo Estupinan-Nazareno, a criminal illegal alien from Ecuador, convicted of importation of cocaine in Weston, Florida. # # # Criminal Illegal Alien Who Offered $10,000 Bounties to Murder ICE Agents Arrested in Dallas, TX 10/17/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs Criminal Illegal Alien Who Offered $10,000 Bounties to Murder ICE Agents Arrested in Dallas, TX The illegal alien was in possession of a firearm—a felony—at the time of his arrest WASHINGTON — The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the October 14, 2025 arrest of Eduardo Aguilar, an illegal alien from Mexico residing in Dallas, Texas, after he posted on TikTok in Spanish soliciting the murder of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. Aguilar's post from October 9, 2025, called for "10 dudes in Dallas with determination who aren't afraid to [two skull emojis]," and offered "10K for each ICE agent." TikTok post placing bounty on ICE agents At the time of his arrest, Aguilar had a loaded 9mm handgun in his vehicle. It is a felony for aliens to possess firearms in the U.S. Eduardo Aguilar Aguilar is charged with transmitting in interstate or foreign commerce a communication containing a threat. "Thanks to the quick work of law enforcement, this illegal alien who was offering $10,000 cash bounties for the murder of ICE law enforcement is in custody and facing federal charges. We are thankful this illegal alien who had a firearm in his possession was arrested before he could kill one of our law enforcement officers," said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. "Our agents are facing ambushes, terrorist attacks, and death threats, all because they dare to enforce the laws passed by Congress. We will not back down from these threats, and every criminal, terrorist, and illegal alien will face American justice."    Aguilar entered the U.S. illegally in 2018 as an unaccompanied minor. On February 8, 2019, an immigration judge issued him a final order of removal. His criminal history in the U.S. includes charges for violating liquor laws.   ICE and the Federal Protective Service (FPS) supported the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Dallas during the investigation of this case alongside the Dallas Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Garland Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives – Dallas Field Division.  # # # ICE Arrests Violent Illegal Alien Child Rapist Released by Richmond's Sanctuary Policies 10/17/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs ICE Arrests Violent Illegal Alien Child Rapist Released by Richmond’s Sanctuary Policies An ICE arrest detainer for this child rapist was not honored and he was released WASHINGTON — The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the October 14, 2025, arrest of Rick Martinez Lopez, a criminal illegal alien pedophile from Guatemala with multiple convictions in the commonwealth of Virginia. His criminal history includes convictions for sexual assault of child, failure to register as a sex offender, and probation violation. In August 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) lodged an arrest detainer on Martinez Lopez with the Richmond City Jail. They stated they would not honor the detainer and released this child predator back into the community. Rick Martinez Lopez “To allow a convicted pedophile, registered sex offender, illegal alien to freely roam Virginia streets is barbaric,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “It is unconscionable to think sanctuary policies and political activists would rather protect this sicko than our own nation’s children. Every sanctuary politician in Virginia is putting the safety of Americans at risk with their dangerous and lawless policies.” Martinez Lopez entered the United States at an unknown date and time and without inspection by an immigration official. ICE law enforcement officers will continue working without pay during the Democrats’ shutdown to ensure the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens are removed from our streets. # # # Criminal Illegal Alien and Suspected Tren de Aragua Gang Member Who Was Living with a New Mexico Judge Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Firearms and Destroying Evidence   10/17/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs Criminal Illegal Alien and Suspected Tren de Aragua gang Member Who Was Living with a New Mexico Judge Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Firearms and Destroying Evidence   Judge, who provided safe haven to suspected Tren de Aragua gang member released into the country by the Biden Administration, faces criminal charges    WASHINGTON – Cristhian Ortega-Lopez, a criminal illegal alien and suspected Tren de Aragua gang member, was living in New Mexico with Magistrate Judge Jose “Joel” Cano pled guilty to illegally possessing firearms and conspiracy to destroy evidence. He was arrested at the judge's house on February 28, 2025.     Ortega-Lopez posted numerous photos and videos of himself on social media accounts with weapons including an AR-15 style rifle, a semi-automatic handgun, and ammunition.      Christhian Ortega-Lopez  Federal authorities allege Judge Cano and his wife hired Ortega-Lopez for home repairs and later allowed him to reside in their guesthouse.     Cristhian with the Cano family    A Christmas photo from 2024 of Cristhian Ortega-Lopez in the Cano family home    Following Ortega-Lopez’s arrest, authorities allege that Judge Cano destroyed a cellphone belonging to Ortega-Lopez by smashing it with a hammer and discarding the remains, believing it contained incriminating photos and videos. Nancy Cano, the judge's wife, is accused of conspiring to delete Ortega-Lopez’s Facebook account to eliminate evidence.    “Cristhian Ortega-Lopez, a suspected Tren de Aragua gang member who pled guilty to illegally possessing firearms and conspiracy to destroy evidence, should never have been released into the country by the Biden Administration,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Judge Cano, a magistrate judge, takes activist judges to a whole new level—having this criminal illegal alien live in his home with him. Time and time again, we see sanctuary politicians and activist judges, like Jose Cano, shield criminal illegal aliens – in this case, a suspected GANG MEMBER, from arrest and removal from the country. This disgusting behavior is wildly unacceptable and is no longer tolerated under the Trump Administration. We are putting the safety of the American people first.”     Ortega-Lopez illegally entered the United States in 2023 during the Biden Administration and was RELEASED into the country. In January 2025, ICE received an anonymous tip Ortega-Lopez was living in New Mexico and was in possession of firearms.    The U.S. Department of Homeland Security will not let the Democrats’ government shutdown prevent our law enforcement officers from executing the critical mission of securing our nation from the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens.  # # # You are subscribed to updates from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Manage Subscriptions  |  Privacy Policy  |  Help Connect with DHS: Facebook  |  X  |  Truth Social  |  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