Yuizanet Elias, Transporting Illegal Alien, New York 2025

Buffalo Woman Arrested for Transporting Illegal Alien

Buffalo, NY – In a shocking display of disregard for the law, Yuizanet Elias, a 46-year-old U.S. citizen, has been arrested and charged with transporting an illegal alien. According to the complaint, Elias's actions could land her behind bars for up to 5 years and come with a hefty fine of $250,000.

On May 18, 2025, agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement Office of Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO) performed surveillance at 317 Schenck Street in North Tonawanda, NY, the residence of Elias and her boyfriend, Jose Antonio Arzate-Negron, a known illegal alien. Arzate-Negron was seen by agents, but as they approached, he ran back into the residence. Elias then exited the residence and was confronted by agents, who requested that she bring Arzate-Negron to the door, but she refused. Agents explained that Arzate-Negron was illegally present in the United States. However, Elias still refused to go get Arzate-Negron. Agents then left the residence.

On multiple days in July 2025, agents surveilled the residence and observed Arzate-Negron exiting the residence and getting into a vehicle registered to and driven by Elias. On these days, it also appeared that Elias was conducting counter-surveillance before Arzate-Negron would leave the residence, attempting to spot law enforcement vehicles. On July 25, 2025, Arzate-Negron exited the residence and got into Elias's vehicle. Agents attempted to conduct a vehicle stop but Elias fled the area. Agents followed the vehicle which, after a short distance, stopped, and Arzate-Negron got out and fled on foot. After a brief foot pursuit, Arzate-Negron was apprehended and taken into custody.

Elias made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and was released on conditions.

The complaint is a result of an investigation by Immigration and Customs Enforcement Office of Enforcement and Removal Operations, under the direction of Acting Field Office Director Steven Kurzdorfer.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

In a bizarre twist, Elias's actions have sparked concerns about the safety of the community and the ease with which individuals can transport undocumented immigrants. As Grimy Times continues to investigate this case, we will provide updates on any developments.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdny/pr/woman-arrested-transporting-illegal-alien