Rafael Cruz-Hernandez, a 39-year-old citizen of Mexico, has been sentenced to eight months in prison for reentering the United States illegally after a previous removal. The sentencing took place in Madison, Wisconsin, with U.S. District Judge William M. Conley presiding over the case. Cruz-Hernandez had entered a guilty plea for the charge on February 25, 2025.
Cruz-Hernandez was arrested in Monroe County, Wisconsin, on December 23, 2023, following an incident of domestic abuse. This marked his second arrest related to domestic offenses. His initial removal from the United States occurred in 2010 after a conviction for third-degree sexual assault.
Judge Conley, considering Cruz-Hernandez's criminal record and recent legal issues, opted for the eight-month sentence. Factors such as his steady employment and strong support from family and friends were also taken into account. However, Judge Conley highlighted that he lacked the authority to release Cruz-Hernandez into the community, citing a risk of reentering the United States illegally. The judge warned that any future illegal return could result in escalated penalties.
The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations along with the Sparta Police Department. The case prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Colleen Lennon.