Mexican National Previously Convicted of Manslaughter
DEL RIO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents apprehended a Mexican national with a previous conviction for manslaughter.
“This arrest serves to remind us of the many inherent dangers our agents face along our nation’s borders,” said Del Rio Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Matthew J. Hudak. “Another convicted criminal has been denied the opportunity to endanger our communities.”
On Oct. 16, Border Patrol agents from the Eagle Pass Station arrested Jose Marcelino Martinez-Garza, 59, for illegal entry into the United States. Records checks revealed an extensive criminal history, including a conviction for manslaughter in Gwinnett County, Georgia, on Oct. 18, 2005, an offense for which he was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Records also show he subsequently was deported from the United States in October 2011.
Martinez-Garza faces prosecution for 8 USC § 1326 – Illegal Reentry After Removal, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
All individuals arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol undergo criminal history checks using biometrics to ensure those with criminal history or gang affiliation are positively identified.
The Del Rio Border Patrol Sector is part of the Joint Task Force-West South Texas Corridor, which leverages federal, state and local resources to combat transnational criminal organizations. To report suspicious activity call the Del Rio Sector’s toll free number at 1-866-511-8727.