In a significant operation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) apprehended a suspected MS-13 gang member in New York, a move that underscores the agency's commitment to safeguarding American communities.
Jamie Manual Perez Perez, aged 42, was detained on September 3 in Brentwood by ICE's Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), as announced by the agency on Tuesday. This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts to address the presence of dangerous individuals within the United States.
According to Fox News, Perez Perez, a national of El Salvador, was residing alarmingly close to a middle school, raising concerns about community safety. "This alleged MS-13 associate resided mere feet from school property and went about his life virtually unchecked and consequence-free until his past finally caught up with him," stated HSI New York Special Agent in Charge Ricky Patel.
The suspect was wanted by Interpol, with a Red Notice issued for aggravated extortion and threats to injure, charges linked to alleged crimes in his home country.
Perez Perez's illegal entry into the U.S. was first detected by Border Patrol in El Paso, Texas, in April 2019. Despite being issued a notice to appear and placed in removal proceedings, with a hearing set for February 2026, he managed to evade immediate deportation. His recent arrest in New York followed a vehicle stop, and he is now in ICE custody awaiting deportation.
Judith Almodovar, acting Field Office Director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) in New York City, emphasized the importance of this arrest. "This MS-13 gang member and international fugitive mistakenly thought he could hide out in the United States to evade justice in his home country," she remarked. Almodovar's statement reinforces the agency's dedication to removing criminal illegal aliens from the nation.
Patel further stressed the need for safe educational environments, stating, "Children deserve to safely go to school each day without the fear of what evil might be lurking next door." He expressed gratitude towards HSI New Yorks Long Island investigators and ICE partners for their relentless efforts in combating the spread and acceptance of transnational criminal street gangs within American communities.
This operation serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by illegal immigration and the necessity of robust law enforcement to protect citizens and uphold the rule of law.
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