ICE targeted-operation in New Jersey results in 91 foreign national arrests

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) led a five-day operation in New Jersey last week that resulted in the detention of 91 foreign nationals suspected of being criminal aliens, illegally re-entering the country or violating other immigration laws, the agency announced Monday.

The operation was led by ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) with support from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) New Jersey Field Office. ICE ERO reports that 77 percent of those arrested were convicted criminals, and 70 percent of them had prior felony convictions.

“The remarkable results of our officers and law enforcement partners highlight ICE’s ongoing commitment to public safety,” John Tsoukaris, field office director of ERO Newark, said. “This operation focuses on the arrest of individuals convicted of serious crimes and are a threat to public safety. Because of the targeted efforts of these professional officers, there are 91 fewer criminals in our communities.”

Of the 91 arrests, 14 were from the Dominican Republic, 12 were from Mexico 10 were from El Salvador, and four were from Colombia, Ecuador, Honduras, and Peru. Six alleged gang members were arrested in the operation, including a Salvadorian national wanted for being a member of MS-13 and trafficking guns and drugs, according to ICE.

“U.S. Customs and Border Protection is extremely proud to have assisted in this operation,” Frank Russo, acting director of the New York Field Office, said. “It is through collaborative efforts that law enforcement agencies can combat illegal acts and apprehend criminals who pose a threat to the homeland.”

Removal proceedings will be initiated, and those arrested will appear before an immigration judge. ICE will make arrangements to remove the individuals from the country when final removal orders are issued.