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The state of California has announced plans to comply with Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s detainer request after the early release of a convicted illegal immigrant. The individual, Oscar Eduardo Ortega-Anguiano, was set to be freed on July 19, which raised significant public concern due to the nature of his conviction for vehicular manslaughter.
Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom’s office confirmed that Ortega-Anguiano would be taken into federal custody before his scheduled release. Reports indicate that while the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation typically adheres to ICE detainer orders, there were apprehensions that the state’s sanctuary policies may have influenced his premature return to society.
Governor Newsom’s press account tweeted, “After being deported in 2013, this individual unlawfully re-entered the US and committed heinous crimes. A GOP DA then offered him a plea deal instead of pursuing 2nd-degree murder. CDCR will again coordinate with ICE, as they have with over 10,000 inmates, to transfer him before release.”
Details of the Conviction
Ortega-Anguiano’s reckless actions led to a tragic incident on the 405 freeway in Orange County in November 2021. Driving under the influence, he sped nearly 100 mph before colliding with a vehicle containing 19-year-olds Anya Varfolomeev and Nicholay Osokin, who tragically perished in the fiery wreck. In the spring of 2022, he was found guilty of two counts of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.
Recently, reports surfaced indicating that Ortega-Anguiano’s release is imminent, with authorities informing the victims’ families during Easter Sunday. The California state government plans to release him after he serves just three and a half years of his sentence.
Federal Charges Emergence
In response to the potential early release, the Department of Justice has announced plans to file federal charges against Ortega-Anguiano in order to extend his imprisonment. A representative stated, “My office has filed a felony immigration charge against this defendant. He faces up to 20 years in federal prison if convicted for 8 USC 1326. If the State of California does not seek full justice against this individual, the DOJ will.” Bill Essayli, United States Attorney for the Central District of California, emphasized accountability at the federal level.
ICE’s Strong Stance
Tom Homan, the border czar, expressed ICE’s determination to swiftly detain and deport Ortega-Anguiano should California allow his release. He stated, “I will collaborate with Homeland Security Secretary Noem on this case, and I guarantee if they do not honor the detainer, we will have ICE agents outside that facility to take this individual into custody and deport him.” This indicates a high level of urgency regarding Ortega-Anguiano’s status.
History of Criminal Activity
ICE revealed that Ortega-Anguiano had entered the United States illegally on two previous occasions before the fatal incident. His criminal history includes various convictions, such as burglary in 2005 and vehicle theft in 2007, as well as a serious assault charge in 2014 involving his spouse.
An immigration judge ordered Ortega’s removal from the U.S. on November 3, 2014. Despite several unsuccessful appeals, he was taken into ICE custody and deported to Mexico on December 2, 2016. However, he attempted to return to the U.S. on February 2, 2018, using counterfeit documents. Ortega was subsequently paroled into the U.S. pending criminal prosecution for illegal re-entry after removal. Unfortunately, after an expedited removal order was issued, he re-entered the U.S. illegally again.
Community Reactions
The news surrounding Ortega-Anguiano’s potential release has sparked outrage among community members and advocates for the victims’ families. Many are questioning the effectiveness of California’s sanctuary policies and the implications of releasing a convicted criminal back into the public.
Activists and lawmakers have voiced their concerns regarding public safety. They argue that releasing individuals with serious criminal records undermines community trust and compromises the safety of innocent residents.
As discussions continue around immigrant rights and community safety, the actions taken by law enforcement and government agencies will remain under scrutiny. The press office for Governor Newsom, alongside ICE, may face pressure to ensure transparency and accountability in how cases like Ortega-Anguiano’s are handled in the future.
Looking Ahead
The unfolding situation raises critical questions about immigration enforcement and the responsibilities of state and federal agencies. As California navigates its policies amidst federal expectations, residents anticipate a firm stance on maintaining justice and public safety.
With strong federal action on the horizon, the emphasis will be on collaboration between state law enforcement, federal agencies, and local communities to address the challenges of illegal immigration and criminal activity. The dialogue surrounding this issue will undoubtedly continue, with further developments expected leading up to Ortega-Anguiano’s release date.
