ICE’s Major Operation in Houston

In a significant operation over the past six months, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has arrested more than 200 individuals in the Houston area for offenses related to child sexual exploitation. These arrests are part of a broader initiative to tackle illegal immigration and associated criminal activities. According to ICE, the 214 individuals detained were either charged or convicted of sex crimes involving minors. This figure surpasses the total number of similar arrests made during the entire 2024 fiscal year.

Government’s Coordinated Effort

The increase in arrests is attributed to a comprehensive government strategy implemented by the current administration. This approach involves multiagency targeting teams that leverage resources and expertise from across federal law enforcement agencies. Paul McBride, acting Field Office Director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in Houston, emphasized that this collaborative effort has led to historic numbers of arrests and removals of violent criminals, including transnational gang members and child sex offenders.

Highlighted Arrests of Repeat Offenders

Among those arrested, ICE highlighted five cases involving individuals who had previously been deported. Jorge Zebra, a 48-year-old Mexican national, was arrested on March 21 for aggravated sexual assault of a minor and was deported back to Mexico on March 24. Jesus Gutierrez Mireles, aged 67, was apprehended on March 28 for similar offenses and has been deported three times, most recently on April 4. Jose Guadalupe Meza, 40, arrested on June 24 for theft and sexual assault of a child, has been deported four times and was sent back to Mexico on June 25. Sergio Rolando Galvan Guerrero, aged 45, was detained on July 12 for DWI and aggravated sexual assault of a child; he has been deported three times and was returned to Mexico on July 14. Lastly, Manuel Antonio Castro-Juarez, 37, arrested on July 18 for sexual assault of a minor, remains in ICE custody pending his third removal to El Salvador.

Ongoing Efforts to Enhance Community Safety

Despite these achievements, McBride acknowledged that more work is needed to address the ongoing crisis effectively. He praised the dedication of ICE officers who continue their efforts to remove dangerous criminals from Southeast Texas communities. The goal is to restore safety and ensure that local areas remain enjoyable for all residents.