Tampa, FL – In a shocking turn of events, two Largo ministers have pleaded guilty to illegal reentry charges, leaving the community stunned and concerned.
Anner Javier Maldonado-Reyes, 39, and Maria Guadalupe Maldonado, 38, both of Largo, have admitted to being citizens of Honduras and to having no legal status in the United States. Maldonado-Reyes was removed from the United States in February 1999 and in February 2008 after prior deportations. His 1999 removal came after a conviction in Los Angeles County, California, for possession of cocaine base for sale.
Maria Guadalupe Maldonado was removed from the United States in October 1996, following a conviction in Los Angeles County for transportation/sale of a controlled substance.
Government records indicate that Anner and Maria Maldonado are the founders of, and employed as ministers in, the church Ministerio Internacional Jesucristo Es Mi Refugio, located at 1550 Belcher Road South in Largo.
According to court records, the couple will face a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not been set.
The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, with assistance from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Murray.
The community is left wondering how two ministers could be involved in such a serious crime. The church’s reputation has been left in tatters, and many are questioning the couple’s motives and actions.
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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