During the week of March 10 through March 14, 2025, a coordinated law enforcement operation in Kentucky led to the administrative arrest of 81 individuals identified as illegal aliens. The initiative, named Operation Take Back America, was conducted by multiple federal agencies and resulted in charges against 25 of those arrested for felony criminal offenses related to immigration.
The arrests included individuals from various countries including Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Cuba, India, and Palau. Of the total arrests made in the Western District of Kentucky, 53 were administrative with 18 facing criminal charges.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett emphasized the significance of this operation stating: “I commend the work of our federal law enforcement partners, prosecutors, and support personnel who worked tirelessly to make this operation a success.” He further added that "the aggressive investigation and prosecution of those who violate immigration laws positively impacts the security of our communities and of the Nation."
Among those charged were Moises Archaga-Garcia from Honduras and Luis Alberto Torres-Flores from El Salvador; both faced charges for reentry after deportation or removal. Other individuals charged include Angel David Zuniga-Baca from Honduras for possession of a firearm by an illegal alien and reentry after deportation or removal.
These cases are part of a broader effort under Operation Take Back America aimed at combating illegal immigration and transnational criminal organizations. The operation is supported by resources from various Department of Justice initiatives including Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
A federal district court judge will determine any sentences following consideration of sentencing guidelines. It is important to note that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.