LAREDO, TEXAS – United States Border Patrol agents assigned to the Hebbronville Border Patrol Station apprehended a member of the notorious Mara Salvatrucha Gang (MS-13 Gang) along with an individual with an extensive criminal history involving multiple felony convictions southwest of Hebbronville Texas.
The arrest occurred during the early morning of January 12, when agents attempted a vehicle stop on State Highway 16. The driver failed to yield before coming to a stop north of a ranch off the highway. Agents apprehended a group of 20 individuals who were in the country illegally from the countries of Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua.
One of the individuals was identified as Kevin Ramirez-Escobar, a 19-year old Guatemalan national. During processing, record checks revealed that Ramirez-Escobar is a self-admitted active member of the notorious MS-13 Gang. Record checks further revealed Ramirez-Escobar had a prior order of removal.
A second subject in the group was identified as William Gomez-Zeldon, a 37-year old Nicaraguan citizen. Record checks on Gomez-Zeldon, revealed an extensive criminal history out of Miami Dade County, Florida. Gomez-Zeldon has multiple felony convictions for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, grand theft of a motor vehicle, armed robbery with a firearm, and aggravated kidnapping with a weapon. Records check further revealed multiple prior deportations.
Both individuals are being criminally charged for their immigration violations and will be remanded into custody of the U.S. Marshals.
Despite the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic, smugglers continue to show little or no regard for the safety of our nation by indiscriminately smuggling dangerous criminals into the country. The Laredo Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol focuses on its enduring mission priorities of countering terrorism, combatting transnational crime, securing the border, and facilitating lawful trade and travel while protecting revenue.
To report suspicious activity such as alien and/or drug smuggling, download the “USBP Laredo Sector” App or contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll free at 1-800-343-1994. If you see something, please say something. You can also follow us on our social media platforms on Twitter and Instagram @usbpchieflrt and @usbpdepchieflrt and on Facebook at US Border Patrol Laredo Sector.