The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) successfully repatriated Nestor Flores Encarnacion, a 58-year-old Mexican national, back to Mexico on Thursday following his apprehension in Houston, Texas. Encarnacion was wanted in his native country, specifically Veracruz, for the grave crime of child rape. His repatriation underscores ICE’s commitment to identifying and removing individuals who pose a threat to public safety and national security, particularly those accused of or convicted of heinous crimes.
Encarnacion’s history reveals a persistent disregard for U.S. immigration laws, as he illegally entered the country on four separate occasions. His initial attempt occurred near Roma, Texas, on February 16, 2002, resulting in his apprehension by U.S. Border Patrol and subsequent return to Mexico. Undeterred, he re-entered the U.S. just days later on February 20th and again on February 22nd. On both occasions, Border Patrol apprehended him, and he was voluntarily returned to Mexico. The details of his fourth illegal entry, including the date and location, remain unknown. This pattern of repeated illegal entry demonstrates a blatant disregard for U.S. law and a determination to evade the legal consequences of his alleged actions in Mexico.
The apprehension of Encarnacion occurred on August 23, 2024, at a residence in Houston. ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Houston Field Office received information suggesting Encarnacion’s presence in the area, coupled with notification of the outstanding warrant for his arrest in Mexico on rape charges. This information prompted immediate action, leading to his arrest and initiation of immigration proceedings.
Following his apprehension, Encarnacion was placed in immigration proceedings. On December 19, 2024, an immigration judge with the Department of Justice granted him voluntary departure, paving the way for his repatriation. This legal process, while ensuring due process, ultimately facilitated his removal from the United States and his return to Mexico to face the charges against him. The grant of voluntary departure likely reflects a strategic decision to expedite the removal process while avoiding a protracted legal battle.
The successful repatriation of Encarnacion highlights the dedication and collaborative efforts of ICE officers in Houston. Bret A. Bradford, Director of the ERO Houston Field Office, emphasized the agency’s unwavering commitment to locating and apprehending undocumented individuals who pose a threat to public safety and border security. He underscored that individuals accused of or having committed heinous crimes, such as child sexual assault, will find no safe haven in Southeast Texas. This statement serves as a strong deterrent message and reinforces the agency’s commitment to protecting communities.
The case of Nestor Flores Encarnacion exemplifies the crucial role of ICE in upholding national security and safeguarding communities from dangerous individuals. By actively pursuing and removing those who flout immigration laws and pose a threat to public safety, ICE contributes significantly to maintaining a secure and just society. This case further highlights the importance of international cooperation and information sharing in apprehending fugitives and ensuring accountability for serious crimes. The collaboration between U.S. and Mexican authorities was instrumental in bringing Encarnacion to justice. The repatriation sends a clear message that the U.S. will not tolerate individuals who seek to evade legal consequences by crossing borders, and that it is committed to working with international partners to ensure that justice is served.
