Violent offender indicted for re-entry

PHILADELPHIA — A Dominican national, previously deported for violent crimes, was indicted Tuesday for illegal re-entry into the United States following an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO).

Jose Luis Peralta-Ferreira, 29, was arrested by Philadelphia police for possession of marijuana and turned over to ICE custody Nov. 25.

Deportation records show, in November 2005, Peralta-Ferreira was arrested for violent robbery in Philadelphia. He was also convicted of theft and simple assault. In 2008, ERO removed him to his place of birth, due to his criminal convictions. At an unknown date thereafter, Peralta-Ferreira illegally re-entered the United States.

If convicted, Peralta-Ferreira faces up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. After serving any prison sentence imposed, he will be turned over to ERO for removal from the United States.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Tomika N. Stevens is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is only an accusation. A person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.