Recently, the federal grand jury in the Northern District of Alabama indicted several individuals on charges related to illegal reentry after deportation and possession of firearms by aliens. Some defendants have been sentenced to federal prison or are awaiting further proceedings after pleading guilty to immigration-related offenses.
U.S. Attorney Prim Escalona emphasized the importance of community safety, stating, "Keeping our communities safe is our top priority." She added that her office focuses on prosecuting individuals illegally present in the country who engage in federal crimes, working closely with law enforcement partners at various levels.
Steven N. Schrank, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Atlanta covering Alabama and Georgia, noted the significance of addressing violations of immigration laws that threaten public safety. He stated, "HSI and our partners remain steadfast in identifying, arresting, and prosecuting illegal aliens who engage in criminal activity."
The individuals indicted between November and January include Elbio Byron Cuz-Chub from Guatemala for firearm possession as an alien; Edgar Bayardo Madriz-Morales from Nicaragua for illegal reentry; Jorge Campos-Xochihua from Mexico for firearm possession as an alien; and Abraham Lopez-Ramirez from Mexico for illegal reentry. An indictment is not proof of guilt; defendants are presumed innocent until proven otherwise.
Several other defendants have been adjudicated on similar charges. Juan Manuel Salas-Sanchez from Mexico received a 135-month sentence for methamphetamine distribution intent and firearm possession as an alien. Marvin Ernesto Clemente from El Salvador was sentenced to 36 months for illegal re-entry. Raul Edgardo Jimenez-Cruz from Honduras was sentenced to 24 months for cocaine distribution intent and illegal reentry. Jesus Daniel Bibiano-Ruiz from Mexico received a 12-month sentence for firearm possession as an alien. Alvaro Amezcua-Gonzalez also from Mexico was sentenced to 10 months for similar charges. Clemente Aguilera-Castaneda pleaded guilty to illegal reentry with sentencing scheduled for February 18, 2025.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys will continue providing training to legal professionals and law enforcement personnel involved in investigating and prosecuting immigration offenses.