The operation was a coordinated effort involving:
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
- Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office
- Florida Highway Patrol (FHP)
The Arrest and Charges
Peralta-Sevilla, a citizen of Honduras, was apprehended during a coordinated vehicle stop by the Florida Highway Patrol. Following the arrest, his vehicle was seized due to multiple violations, including driving without a valid license.
"He is a member of MS-13, a designated foreign terrorist organization, and he’s currently pending removal proceedings," stated ICE Director Todd M. Lyons.
Background and Immigration History
Investigation reveals that Peralta-Sevilla has a long history of illegal presence in the United States:
- July 2013: He first illegally entered the U.S. through Texas’ Rio Grande Valley.
- Initial Encounter: Border Patrol agents detained him, where he admitted to his Honduran citizenship and illegal status.
- Legal Loophole: A Department of Justice immigration judge previously granted him bond, allowing him to remain in the U.S.
- Future Hearings: His next court date was not scheduled until April 2027, but this arrest has now accelerated his removal proceedings.
Peralta-Sevilla is currently held in the Palm Beach County Jail and will be transferred to ICE custody for deportation.
OFFICIAL REFERENCE:
View Official ICE Release ➜Source: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)