Ruben Urizar-Beteta Guilty of Illegal Re-Entry into U.S.

New Orleans, Louisiana – The grim streets of New Orleans witnessed a pivotal moment in the battle against illegal immigration as Ruben Urizar-Beteta, a 49-year-old citizen of Guatemala, stood guilty before the court for illegal re-entry into the United States. Urizar-Beteta had been previously removed from the country on September 30, 2014, but brazenly returned, defying the law yet again.

On July 15, 2025, the court handed down a sentence of 30 months unsupervised probation and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. This conviction comes as part of Operation Take Back America, a determined nationwide initiative led by the Department of Justice to combat illegal immigration, dismantle cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and ensure community safety.

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson lauded the United States Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for their relentless pursuit in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González led the prosecution, showcasing the commitment to justice in the General Crimes Unit.

Urizar-Beteta’s illegal return to the U.S. not only highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement but also serves as a stark reminder of the lengths some individuals are willing to go to defy the law. As Operation Take Back America continues, such cases underscore the need for aggressive enforcement measures and community vigilance.

The ICE’s efforts in this matter demonstrate the coordinated approach of federal agencies to tackle illegal immigration head-on. With resources from OCDETFs and Project Safe Neighborhood, the initiative is a formidable force against those who threaten American communities and the rule of law.

Ruben Urizar-Beteta’s sentence sends a clear message: there will be consequences for illegal re-entry into the United States, and the Department of Justice stands firm in its commitment to protecting the nation from such violations.