Exclusive | ICE rounds up over 1,000 illegal immigrants during two-week operation to honor Laken Riley

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials have successfully carried out Operation Angel’s Honor, apprehending over 1,030 illegal aliens in honor of Laken Riley, a nursing student who was tragically murdered by an illegal immigrant while out for a jog. The operation, which concluded recently, aimed to prevent similar incidents by targeting illegal immigrants with criminal records.

Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem commended the efforts of ICE officers in removing these criminals from the streets, ensuring that justice is served for victims like Laken Riley. The Laken Riley Act, named after the slain student, mandates the arrest of illegal immigrants caught committing crimes such as theft, assault, and more.

One such criminal, José Antonio Ibarra, the murderer of Laken Riley, had a history of offenses including shoplifting and assault. The Laken Riley Act seeks to prevent dangerous individuals like Ibarra from harming innocent citizens. Notably, President Trump signed this legislation as his first act in his second term.

During Operation Angel’s Honor, ICE arrested illegal immigrants involved in heinous crimes such as rape, assault, and indecent liberties with a child. ICE Director Todd Lyons emphasized the impact of immigrant violence on victims and their families, underscoring ICE’s commitment to preventing further tragedies.

Among the criminals apprehended during the operation were individuals like Alejandro Ojose-Asto, with a record including rape and assault, Carlos Gomez-Diaz convicted of sexual exploitation of a child, and Fernando Manzanares-Cruz with charges of assault and battery. These arrests highlight the importance of removing dangerous criminals from American communities.

In addition to targeting criminal illegal immigrants, the Laken Riley Act empowers states to take action against federal violations of detention and removal requirements. However, challenges arise from states with sanctuary policies that hinder cooperation with immigration enforcement efforts.

The success of Operation Angel’s Honor serves as a reminder of the critical role ICE plays in safeguarding communities from violent criminals. By upholding the principles of the Laken Riley Act, law enforcement agencies work diligently to ensure the safety and security of all Americans.