ICE Arrests Illegal Immigrant Accused of Stalking U.S. Government Official

ICE Arrests Illegal Immigrant Accused of Stalking U.S. Government Official

Recent reports reveal that Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have apprehended a Salvadoran national accused of stalking a mother and U.S. government official. This individual, identified as Jose Madrid Reyes, was previously ordered to leave the country in 2022, according to information obtained by Fox News Digital.

Reyes was arrested on July 12 and currently remains in ICE custody as preparations for his deportation unfold, which is anticipated to occur in the coming days. The Department of Homeland Security is overseeing this case closely.

Investigation Triggered by Government Official’s Concerns

The investigation initiated when a U.S. government official reached out to Homeland Security Investigations after voicing fears that she was being stalked. For her protection, the name of this government official has not been disclosed.

During the inquiry, it became apparent that her concerns extended to her family’s safety, specifically regarding her child. This heightened the urgency of the situation, prompting a swift response from HSI.

Past Criminal Record of Reyes

As investigations revealed more about Reyes, law enforcement discovered a troubling history. His criminal record spans nearly two decades, showcasing a pattern of violent and illegal behavior, including several convictions for assault and driving while intoxicated.

His first known legal issue dates back to August 2006, when he received a conviction in Manassas, Virginia, for driving while intoxicated (DWI). This incident marked the beginning of a series of legal troubles.

Fast forward nearly a decade, in May 2017, Reyes faced additional legal consequences in Fairfax, Virginia. He was convicted of misdemeanor assault against a family member. Such incidents illustrate an ongoing pattern of violence associated with this individual.

In September 2019, Reyes further compounded his legal issues with another DWI conviction in Fairfax County General District Court. Despite these repeated offenses, he continued to reside in the United States illegally.

Legal Status and Deportation

Reyes’s legal challenges culminated when an immigration judge ordered his removal from the United States in 2022. Compounding this, he was denied permanent legal status in 2024. However, even after these rulings, he remained in the country, leading to his recent arrest.

Government Response to Rising Crime

In light of such cases, government officials have expressed a commitment to ensuring public safety. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin highlighted the dangers posed by individuals like Reyes, stating that ICE agents continuously work to apprehend criminals who should not be in the country.