HSI Tucson, DEA, U.S. Marshals arrest 2 illegal aliens previously convicted for aggravated felonies

TUCSON, Ariz. — A Mexican national illegally in the United States was arrested Jan. 25 by special agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).

The arrest unfolded after agents discovered information on the whereabouts of one of the illegal alien who was previously convicted for a felony, after fleeing the scene of an accident involving a death/serious injuries. Additionally, records checks revealed this suspect was under investigation by both HSI and DEA for participating in a transnational criminal organization allegedly trafficking cocaine and fentanyl in Tucson.

At approximately 2 p.m., agents observed the suspect exit a residence along with two other individuals. The three suspects entered a car and went to the Home Depot located at the intersection of Dodge Blvd and Broadway Ave in Tucson. Agents followed the vehicle to the parking lot and waited for the suspects to return to their vehicle from Home Depot. Once the three suspects returned to the vehicle, HSI, U.S. Marshals and DEA agents detained the individuals and confirmed their identities and citizenship.

One of the three suspects detained was a United States citizen who was released at the scene. The third suspect was identified as a Mexican citizen also illegally present in the United States. Records checks identified the third suspect had a prior aggravated felony conviction for sexual assault in 2005, after which he was deported.

Both individuals were administratively detained for re-entering the United States without inspection or parole and both are in ICE custody pending the outcome of their immigration cases.

The success of these arrests is due to the significant assistance from DEA and the U.S. Marshals.