Romanian Citizen Nicolae Strava Sentenced for Illegal Reentry

Williamsport, PA – A Romanian national has been handed a nine-month prison sentence for illegal reentry into the United States after being removed from the country. Nicolae Strava, 30, faced charges following an arrest for theft by deception in Centre County on September 20, 2024.

Strava, who was originally removed to Houston, Texas, in April 2019, pleaded guilty to illegal reentry before being sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Matthew W. Brann. The sentence is part of a broader effort to combat illegal immigration and transnational criminal organizations, as outlined in Operation Take Back America.

According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Assistant U.S. Attorney Robin Zenzinger prosecuted the matter, ensuring that Strava will now face deportation proceedings due to an ICE detainer lodged against him.

This sentencing is another victory for Operation Take Back America, which brings together resources from various Department of Justice initiatives to combat illegal immigration and protect communities. The initiative also targets cartels, transnational criminal organizations, and violent crime perpetrators.

Strava’s case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences faced by those who violate U.S. immigration laws and highlights the ongoing efforts to maintain public safety and uphold the rule of law.

The Grimy Times will continue to cover such cases, shedding light on the persistent battle against illegal immigration and its impact on American communities.