U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced the arrest of Marvin Jose Espana, a 46-year-old Honduran citizen, on charges of illegal re-entry into the United States. The criminal complaint alleges that Espana, who had been removed from the U.S. in June 2007 and again in August 2014, was found to be illegally present in the country. The charge carries a potential penalty of up to two years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Colleen M. McCarthy is handling the case. According to the complaint, Buffalo Border Patrol Station agents responded on April 15, 2025, to assist Amherst Police officers during a traffic stop involving two individuals. A records check revealed that Espana was one of these individuals and was unlawfully present in the United States after previous removals.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, an initiative by the Department of Justice aimed at addressing illegal immigration and combating cartels and transnational criminal organizations.
Espana appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and remains detained following his initial court appearance.
The investigation leading to this complaint was conducted by U.S. Border Patrol under Patrol Agent in Charge Juan Ramirez's direction.
It is important to note that while charges have been filed against Espana, he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.