Corpus Christi, Texas – The grim tale of Rafael Cortez-Gonzalez, a 53-year-old native of San Luis Potosi, Mexico, reached its conclusion in federal court. Cortez-Gonzalez, a repeat offender with a notorious history, has been sentenced to 39 months behind bars for his unlawful re-entry into the United States for the fourth time. This announcement comes from U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
The defendant, who pleaded guilty on May 1st, was ordered by U.S. District Judge David Morales to serve the substantial sentence, which officials hope will act as a deterrent against future illegal border crossings. Cortez-Gonzalez is not a U.S. citizen and will face removal proceedings upon his release.
At his hearing, the court detailed Cortez-Gonzalez’s extensive criminal record, which includes three felony convictions. His previous offenses involve two felony convictions for illegal re-entry as well as transporting an illegal alien within the United States. He was first removed from the country in November 2000 and has since returned to the U.S. three times.
Authorities discovered Cortez-Gonzalez on February 12, 2023, in Kenedy County, Texas, where he had no authorization to be. The Border Patrol conducted the investigation that led to his capture, while Assistant U.S. Attorney Yasmine K. Tucker prosecuted the case with tenacity.
This sentence is part of Operation Take Back America, a determined nationwide effort by the Department of Justice to combat illegal immigration and protect communities from violent crime. The initiative consolidates resources from various task forces and projects within the Department of Justice.
Cortez-Gonzalez will remain in custody until transferred to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility, as his sentence commences immediately. This case underscores the commitment of law enforcement to uphold the rule of law and safeguard American borders against persistent illegal immigration threats.
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Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Organized Crime|Drug Trafficking|Public Corruption|White Collar Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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