Phoxay Souvannarath/Laos/Voluntary Manslaughter, DUI, Gang Affiliation

ICE San Diego arrested Phoxay Souvannarath, 42, a citizen of Laos who is unlawfully present in the United States. According to court and law enforcement records, his history includes a conviction for voluntary manslaughter and additional DUI convictions. Records also note documented gang affiliation with the Oriental Killer Boys. He was taken into custody in the San Diego area and processed for immigration detention while his case proceeds before an immigration judge.

Voluntary manslaughter is prosecuted when a person unlawfully takes a life under circumstances that mitigate from murder, such as a heat of passion or other factors recognized by statute. Convictions are typically supported by witness testimony, scene and forensic documentation, and medical examiner findings establishing cause of death and the defendant’s role. Sentences in such cases commonly include lengthy incarceration followed by supervision conditions aimed at public safety.

DUI convictions confirm prior operation of a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs, established through standardized field sobriety tests, chemical analysis, and officer observations. A record reflecting multiple DUI incidents signals recurring dangerous conduct despite prior court sanctions and is weighed by courts and immigration authorities when evaluating risk and custody.

Gang affiliation designations are documented through law enforcement databases and case files that may include admissions, associations, tattoos or insignia, and prior incident histories. While not a conviction on its own, such documentation informs risk assessments, especially when paired with violent and public safety offenses.

Following apprehension, officers verified identity through biometrics, compiled certified criminal records, and initiated removal proceedings. Souvannarath remains detained while hearings are scheduled and while any required travel documentation is coordinated with the receiving government should a final order of removal issue.