Staff Reports
Federal immigration authorities cited a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policy directive when explaining their handling of an illegal immigrant charged with murder. Antonio Antonio-Rodas, an illegal immigrant from Guatemala, was arrested for a fatal car accident in Alabama. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) knew about his criminal history and immigration status since a 2021 DUI arrest but did not take him into custody at the time due to COVID-19 concerns and a directive from DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas that changed enforcement priorities.
Antonio-Rodas was driving under the influence and speeding at 88 miles per hour when the crash happened, resulting in the death of a 19-year-old. ICE confirmed he entered the U.S. unlawfully and had a previous encounter with the agency for a DUI arrest in 2021. Despite this, he was released in line with the new enforcement guidelines that prioritized prosecutorial discretion for certain immigrants.
ICE Points To Biden Admin Policy As Reason Illegal Immigrant Accused Of Murdering Teen Was Out Free
America can’t survive 4 more years of Biden https://t.co/zqSO3Enzlv
— Rob (@_ROB_29) May 17, 2024
The policy directive also took into account the high number of illegal immigrants in the country and aimed to focus on those posing significant risks. ICE issued a detainer for Antonio-Rodas after his murder arrest, but the victim’s family expressed dissatisfaction that he wasn’t deported earlier. Amidst heavy GOP criticism of Mayorkas’s handling of the immigration crisis, the DHS did not respond immediately to requests for comments on the situation.
This tragic incident highlights the need for stricter immigration enforcement to prevent such crimes from occurring. Conservative views emphasize the importance of upholding the law and prioritizing the safety and security of American citizens. Policies that prioritize the well-being of illegal immigrants over public safety can have devastating consequences, as seen in this case. It is crucial for the government to enforce immigration laws effectively to protect communities from preventable tragedies like this.
