Tucson Sector Border Patrol Arrests Convicted Murderer

Tucson, Ariz. – A Mexican national previously convicted of murder was apprehended yesterday by the Tucson Sector Border Patrol, a component of U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Joint Field Command-Arizona.

Luis Carrasco-Valencia, 29, was apprehended by Douglas Station Border Patrol agents for illegally entering the United States. Using a national fingerprint identification system, agents discovered he was arrested by the New York Police Department in April 2003, and in June 2004 was convicted and sentenced to eight years in prison for murder with intention. He was also convicted of criminal possession of a weapon (loaded firearm) and sentenced to two years in prison. Carrasco-Valencia now faces federal prosecution for re-entry of an aggravated felon.

Tucson Sector Border Patrol is committed to keeping criminals, such as Carrasco-Valencia, from entering our communities. All individuals apprehended by the Border Patrol undergo a criminal history check using the Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System, allowing agents to quickly identify and classify violent criminals and wanted persons.

Customs and Border Protection appreciates assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity and remain anonymous by calling the Border Patrol at (877) 872-7435.

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.