Three convicted felons have been sentenced to federal prison in North Carolina after illegally reentering the United States following deportation.
All three men had significant criminal histories, underscoring the danger posed when repeat offenders unlawfully return to the country.
Ezequiel Andres-Antonio, 42, received a 12-month prison sentence after pleading guilty in March to reentering the United States without authorization.
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He had previously been deported after an aggravated felony conviction for possession with intent to sell or deliver cocaine.
His case demonstrates how individuals with serious drug-related backgrounds attempt to defy removal orders and return despite prior convictions.
Edward Nunez, 45, was sentenced to 19 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to illegal reentry in February.
Prosecutors noted that Nunez had been removed from the country three separate times before his most recent offense.
His criminal record included multiple felony convictions, such as conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon, as well as recent charges for cocaine and methamphetamine possession.
Nunez’s history of violent and drug-related crimes made his unlawful reentry particularly concerning for law enforcement officials.
Martin Reyes-Hernandez, 37, was sentenced to 13 months in prison following his guilty plea in April.
He had been deported five times and carried a lengthy criminal record that included larceny-related convictions and assault with a deadly weapon.
Authorities emphasized that his repeated violations highlighted the risks posed by offenders who consistently disregard both immigration laws and criminal statutes.
The cases were investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by the National Security Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina. U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan imposed the sentences.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar stated that these prosecutions reflect the Justice Department’s commitment to enforcing immigration laws, especially against offenders who combine illegal reentry with histories of violent or drug-related crimes.
Illegal reentry after deportation is a federal offense, and penalties are heightened for individuals with aggravated felonies or multiple prior removals.
Federal prosecutors in North Carolina have increasingly prioritized such cases, citing both the repeated violation of immigration law and the added danger when offenders return to local communities with violent backgrounds.
The sentencing of Andres-Antonio, Nunez, and Reyes-Hernandez underscores the Justice Department’s focus on protecting public safety by addressing repeat offenders who defy deportation orders and continue to commit crimes.
By holding such individuals accountable, federal authorities aim to send a message that illegal reentry will not be tolerated, particularly when it involves those with serious criminal pasts.
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