ICE Takes Action Against Repeat Offender Linked to Murder and Gang Activity

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced the deportation of a migrant gang member who illegally entered the United States ten times and is sought for a murder charge in Mexico. Humberto Romero Avila, 45, has a lengthy record of illegal entry and criminal behavior, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to enhancing public safety.

Avila, labeled a ‘foreign fugitive’ by ICE, first crossed the U.S. border illegally in 2002. His history includes a pending murder charge for the fatal shooting of a 22-year-old man in 2007 in Mexico. Additionally, he has a criminal record in the U.S., featuring convictions for larceny, four Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) offenses, and various other criminal violations.

Criminal Record and Gang Affiliation

A member of the Paisas prison gang, Avila’s illegal activities prompted his latest arrest in March 2024 after law enforcement officials apprehended him for DWI in Shelby County, Texas. Following the arrest, ICE filed an immigration detainer, initiating proceedings to prosecute him for illegal reentry into the United States.

During routine background checks, ICE received information from the U.S. Embassy in Mexico regarding Avila’s murder charges in Mexico, further complicating his legal troubles.

Judicial Proceedings and Deportation

Avila faced a legal judgment for illegal reentry on January 28 in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, resulting in a sentence of time served. Upon his release, the Bureau of Prisons transferred him into ICE custody on January 31, where his previous removal order was reinstated. He was subsequently deported to Mexico.

Bret Bradford, the director of ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in Houston, expressed serious concerns about Avila’s repeated disregard for both immigration and criminal laws over the past 25 years. Bradford emphasized that Avila’s actions not only endangered lives in the U.S. but also in Mexico, particularly due to the alleged murder.

Public Safety and Immigration Enforcement

Bradford stated the deportation enhances public safety, affirming, ‘He will no longer be free to reign terror on the general public and finally face justice for his alleged involvement in that heinous crime that took place 18 years ago.’ He noted the increase in public safety since Avila’s removal from the United States.

Avila’s history of illegal crossings dates back to March 22, 2002, with multiple attempts throughout the years. He illegally entered the country four times in 2002 alone and faced immediate apprehension each time, resulting in prompt returns to Mexico.

His more serious violations escalated when he reentered illegally and was later caught during a DUI arrest on August 3, 2012, in Nacogdoches County, Texas. He faced deportation afterward but continued to return to the U.S. through unlawful means.

Staggering Statistics on Illegal Immigration

Avila’s deportation aligns with a broader trend under the Trump administration, marked by an extensive crackdown on criminal illegal immigrants. The numbers speak for themselves: recent data records show 11,791 interior arrests by ICE between January 20 and February 8, compared to only 4,969 during the same timeframe in 2024.

This significant increase in enforcement underscores the administration’s focus on addressing illegal immigration and its associated criminal activities. It also reflects the ongoing efforts to enhance the security and safety of communities across the nation.

A Commitment to Community Safety

The actions taken against Avila are indicative of ICE’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding U.S. communities. Officials assert that rigorous immigration enforcement serves as a crucial component in maintaining public safety and deterring further criminal activity among repeat offenders.

With ongoing scrutiny regarding immigration policies, the case of Humberto Romero Avila serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by individuals who repeatedly break the law while also engaging in violent crimes. As authorities continue their enforcement efforts, they aim for a future wherein communities can feel secure from both violent crime and the complexities of illegal immigration.

In conclusion, the deportation of Humberto Romero Avila highlights the critical role that immigration enforcement plays in protecting public safety. As ICE continues to prioritize the apprehension and deportation of criminal illegal migrants, residents can anticipate a steady focus on enhancing community security and addressing the challenges posed by transnational criminal organizations.