Gilberto Zapata/Mexico/Murder

ICE New Orleans deported Gilberto Zapata, a citizen of Mexico. Court records reflect a felony conviction for murder, for which a judge imposed a 13 year prison sentence. Following completion of the criminal portion of the case, immigration officers assumed custody under federal law and began the post conviction transfer steps required to carry out repatriation to Mexico.

Murder prosecutions are among the most serious handled in state courts. Case files typically include witness statements, scene documentation, forensic analyses, and medical examiner reports establishing cause and manner of death. Digital and physical evidence, such as location data, device extractions, DNA results, or ballistic workups, can also connect a defendant to the scene and timeline. A recorded conviction confirms that the elements of the offense were proved beyond a reasonable doubt and that the sentencing court entered a custodial term reflecting the gravity of the conduct.

Removal processing for Zapata included biometric identity verification, assembly of certified judgment and sentencing documents, and coordination of travel authorization with the Government of Mexico. Once documentation and routing were finalized, officers scheduled a repatriation itinerary in accordance with transport and security protocols and escorted Zapata throughout the transfer.

Upon arrival overseas, custody transferred to Mexican authorities for any actions considered appropriate under local law and policy. The immigration and criminal tracks remain distinct in matters of this kind. With deportation executed, the United States custody portion of the immigration case is concluded, and the certified criminal judgment remains part of the permanent record used for admissibility determinations and lawful information sharing with the receiving jurisdiction.