Cruz-Matute Sentenced for Illegal Re-Entry

Honduran National Alex O. Cruz-Matute, 39, faced the federal bench today after pleading guilty to a serious charge of illegal re-entry.

According to U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite, Cruz-Matute was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt to two years in prison, followed by two years of supervised release. The court also imposed a $5,000 fine and ordered Cruz-Matute to pay a $100 special assessment.

Cruz-Matute’s sentence came after he admitted violating Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), which pertains to the illegal reentry of removed aliens. Court documents revealed that Cruz-Matute had been deported on October 11, 2007, and returned to the United States despite being barred from entry.

U.S. Attorney Polite commended the efforts of the United States Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis was credited with leading the prosecution against Cruz-Matute.

The defendant, now serving his sentence, will be turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following his release for removal proceedings, ensuring that he cannot again violate U.S. immigration laws.

This case underscores the commitment of federal law enforcement to uphold the nation’s immigration policies and safeguard public safety. Cruz-Matute’s sentencing serves as a stern reminder of the consequences faced by those who attempt to reenter the United States after being legally removed.