Colombian Lozano Pleads Guilty to Illegal Re-Entry in Buffalo

Edwuin Rogelio Lozano, a 46-year-old citizen of Colombia, found himself in the grim crosshairs of federal law enforcement for illegal re-entry into the United States. Today, U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced that Lozano pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara for charges of illegal re-entry.

Lozano’s plight took an ominous turn when he was sentenced to time served and handed over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Fauzia K. Mattingly, who spearheaded the case, confirmed that Lozano is an alien with no legal status in the United States.

The man from Colombia had already been physically removed from the United States in December 2020 following an order of removal. However, on April 6, 2025, he resurfaced in Erie County as a passenger in a vehicle that was flagged by Department of Homeland Security agents at a local hotel.

Under questioning, Lozano confessed to being illegally present in the United States. This case is a part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide operation aimed at combating illegal immigration and dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs). The investigation was led by U.S. Border Patrol, under the direction of Patrol Agent in Charge Martin B. Coombs.

U.S. Attorney DiGiacomo emphasized the significance of this case within the broader context of Operation Take Back America. ‘The plea and sentencing of Lozano are a clear message that we will not tolerate illegal immigration or the activities of cartels and transnational criminal organizations,’ DiGiacomo stated.

The grim tale of Edwuin Rogelio Lozano serves as a stark reminder of the relentless efforts by federal authorities to protect American communities from those who seek to violate our borders and laws. # # # #