Ramirez-Hernandez Faces Re-Entry Rap in New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS – Another border crosser busted. Jose Luis Ramirez-Hernandez, 38, a citizen of Mexico, is facing federal charges after allegedly sneaking back into the United States despite being previously deported. U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced the one-count bill of information on Monday, June 3, 2019, accusing Ramirez-Hernandez of violating 8 U.S.C. § 1326(a) – illegal reentry of a removed alien.

The feds allege Ramirez-Hernandez reentered the country sometime around 2018, a little over a year after he was initially kicked out on or about September 20, 2017. Details surrounding the initial removal and the circumstances of his return remain scarce, but the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) did the legwork on the investigation.

If convicted, Ramirez-Hernandez is looking at a maximum of two years behind bars. But it doesn’t stop there. The potential penalties also include a hefty fine of up to $250,000.00, a year of supervised release after serving time, and a $100 special assessment fee – meaning the government wants every penny. This isn’t a slap on the wrist; it’s a serious federal charge.

Strasser was quick to remind everyone that a bill of information isn’t a conviction. It’s simply the formal accusation. The burden of proof rests squarely on the prosecution to demonstrate Ramirez-Hernandez’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The legal wheels are turning, but a trial – or a plea bargain – will determine his fate.

Assistant United States Attorney Irene González is leading the charge in the prosecution, presumably building a case to prove Ramirez-Hernandez knowingly violated federal immigration laws. ICE’s involvement signals a continued focus on tracking and prosecuting individuals who attempt to circumvent the immigration system. This case is a clear message: crossing the border illegally has consequences.

Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as they become available. The legal system is a slow grind, but we’ll be there to report the outcome and shed light on the realities of federal crime in Louisiana and beyond. * * *