Over 200 alien offenders were arrested in the Northern Virginia operation.
According to ICE, from March 1-13, ICE and law enforcement partners apprehended 214 illegal aliens linked to dangerous gangs in Northern Virginia.
Targeting Notorious Gangs and Egregious Offenders
The recent operation spearheaded by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in collaboration with multiple law enforcement agencies, targeted areas known for gang activity, especially involving the MS-13 and 18th Street gangs.
The focus was on detaining individuals involved in transnational crime and those with severe criminal histories. Notable gangs like MS-13 and 18th Street were the primary targets due to their notorious criminal activities.
The enforcement initiative also prioritized arresting egregious offenders, including gang members and previously convicted criminals. This approach ensured that those who posed the greatest threat to public safety were dealt with firmly.
Among those arrested were individuals deeply involved in violent acts and organized crime, underlining the operation’s focus on curbing gang influence.
Partnerships in the operation included the U.S. Attorney’s Offices from the Eastern and Western Districts of Virginia, the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, DEA, CBP, ATF, offices of the Governor and Attorney General of Virginia, Virginia State Police, and the Virginia Department of Corrections. Each entity provided unique resources and expertise, significantly contributing to the operation’s success.
Profiles of Apprehended Individuals
The arrests included a diverse group of individuals with troubling criminal backgrounds. These included a 26-year-old member of MS-13 previously convicted of malicious wounding and larceny, and a 46-year-old repeated offender with convictions for illegal re-entry among others.
Each arrestee brought a history of serious crimes, including a 40-year-old wanted in El Salvador for aggravated extortion and a 37-year-old convicted of second-degree murder.
Public safety in communities across Northern Virginia is expected to see a significant improvement following these arrests. The disruption of these criminal networks is pivotal in the ongoing battle against organized crime and gang violence in the region. Community members are encouraged to report suspicious activities to ICE to further aid in maintaining safety and security.
Statements from Law Enforcement Leaders
Russ Hott, the Field Office Director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in Washington, D.C., highlighted the cooperative nature of the operation. Hott emphasized that the joint efforts made communities safer by directly addressing the threat of dangerous alien offenders. He praised the impressive number of arrests, which he noted as a testament to the collaboration among federal, state, and local law enforcement.
Christopher Heck, Acting Special Agent in Charge at ICE Homeland Security Investigations in Washington, D.C., acknowledged the significant impact of the apprehensions. "The agents and officers involved in this enhanced operation truly made a difference in the Northern Virginia," Heck remarked. His comments underscored the teamwork and dedication of various law enforcement agencies during the operation.
The success of this operation is a clear signal to criminal gangs about the consequences of illegal activities in the United States. Hott issued a stern warning to gang members about the ongoing enforcement measures and the determination to prosecute those found guilty of criminal activities to the fullest extent of the law.
In conclusion, the concerted effort of ICE and its partners has significantly weakened the operations of dangerous gangs in Northern Virginia. This operation serves as a reminder of the continuous commitment of law enforcement to maintain public safety and enforce the law.
