Criminal Aliens Apprehended By Border Patrol Convicted, Imprisoned Pending Deportation

Tucson, AZ –Two Mexican nationals apprehended by Tucson, Ariz. Border Patrol agents for attempting to illegally re-enter the United States were sentenced to prison on Sept. 16.

Jorge Arriega-Hernandez, a 39-year-old male from Zitácuaro, Michoacán, México, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for re-entry of an aggravated felon.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted Jorge Arriega-Hernandez after he was apprehended April 5. During processing at the Ajo Station, the Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System revealed he was convicted in Fresno County, Calif., in 2005 for possession with intent to manufacture methamphetamine and was sentenced to 151 days in prison. Record checks also indicated he was previously deported from the U.S. after serving his sentence.

Following initial processing, the Tucson Sector’s Prosecution Unit submitted the case to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Following his incarceration in federal prison, Arriega-Hernandez will be formally removed from the country.

José Eleazar Amaya-García, a 43-year-old male from San Juan Tumbio, Michoacán, México, was sentenced to 64 months in prison for re-entry of an aggravated felon.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted Amaya-García after he was apprehended March 18. During processing at the Tucson Station, IAFIS revealed Amaya-García was convicted in Orange County, Calif., in 1999 for making terrorist threats toward an individual.

Record checks also indicated Amaya-García was previously deported from the U.S. through San Ysidro, Calif., after serving a two-year sentence. Following initial processing, the case was submitted to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for re-entry of an aggravated felon. Following his incarceration in federal prison, Amaya-García will be formally removed from the country.

All individuals apprehended by the Border Patrol undergo criminal history checks using IAFIS. This vital tool accesses criminal records throughout the United States, thereby assisting agents in quickly identifying violent criminals and wanted persons.

Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Report suspicious activity by calling the Border Patrol toll free at (877) 872-7435. All calls will be answered and remain anonymous.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.