Fredy Contreras/Honduras/Laundering of Monetary Instruments

On July 24, ICE New Orleans arrested Fredy Contreras, a citizen of Honduras with a serious financial crime conviction. Contreras, who is illegally present in the United States, was previously convicted of laundering monetary instruments and sentenced to 30 months in federal prison. Following his release, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) officers took him into custody and initiated removal proceedings.

Contreras was prosecuted for his role in a money laundering scheme that funneled illicit funds through multiple channels in an attempt to obscure their origin and evade detection. This type of crime is often tied to larger criminal enterprises, including narcotics trafficking and organized fraud. During his sentencing, federal prosecutors emphasized the sophistication of the operation and the significant amount of money involved.

His conviction and sentence reflect the gravity of the charges and the danger financial crimes pose to the integrity of U.S. financial institutions. After serving his prison term, Contreras was flagged for immigration enforcement action due to his illegal status and felony conviction.

ICE officials have confirmed that Contreras is being held in custody pending the outcome of his immigration case. He faces removal to Honduras and will remain detained throughout the proceedings.