NEW ORLEANS – Jorge Luis Ruelas-Guerra, 47, a citizen of Mexico, admitted in federal court on July 10, 2025, that he knowingly violated U.S. immigration law by illegally re-entering the country after being previously deported. The plea comes after a routine traffic stop in Houma, Louisiana, exposed his unlawful presence. Ruelas-Guerra faces serious consequences for his blatant disregard of federal law.
According to court documents, Ruelas-Guerra’s illegal re-entry constitutes a violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a). He was initially removed from the United States on September 29, 2011, and knowingly returned despite that order. The Houma Police Department (HPD) initiated the chain of events on May 17, 2024, when officers pulled him over for failing to stop at a stop sign.
During the traffic stop, Ruelas-Guerra presented a Mexican passport but claimed he had no driver’s license. However, body cam footage clearly identified him as the driver. A check of his information revealed a disturbing pattern: matches in Department of Homeland Security systems linked him to his prior deportation and booking photos from previous arrests. He had made no attempt to legally petition for re-entry through United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, further solidifying the case against him.
This isn’t just a paperwork violation; it’s a direct challenge to border security and the rule of law. Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson is sending a clear message: repeated unlawful entry will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The case highlights the ongoing struggle to maintain control of the border and the efforts of federal and local agencies to work together.
Ruelas-Guerra’s sentencing is scheduled for October 23, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe. He now faces a maximum prison sentence of two years, a hefty fine of up to $250,000, a maximum of one year of supervised release following imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. The sentence will likely serve as a deterrent to others considering similar actions.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson commended the collaborative efforts of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Houma Police Department in bringing this case to fruition. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is leading the prosecution, ensuring that Ruelas-Guerra is held accountable for his actions. This case underscores the commitment of federal authorities to enforcing immigration laws and protecting national security.
Related Federal Cases
- Repeat Offender Ruelas-Guerra Faces Federal Time · Louisiana
- Repeat Offender Hernandez-Yones Jailed for 3 Years · Louisiana
- Repeat Offender: Terrazas-Ordonez Faces Federal Re-Entry Charges · Iowa
- Repeat Offender Pinguil-Caguana Jailed for Illegal Re-Entry · Maine
- Repeat Offender Zelaya-Zelaya Admits Illegal Return · Louisiana
Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
Organized CrimeOrganized CrimeOrganized CrimeOrganized Crime