Jose Pablo Martinez-Hernandez/Mexico/Possession of a Controlled Substance

Jose Pablo Martinez-Hernandez, a 35-year-old citizen of Mexico illegally present in the United States, was arrested by ICE Salt Lake City officers. Martinez-Hernandez was previously convicted of possession of a controlled substance, a conviction stemming from a 2022 arrest in Utah where he was found with narcotics during a routine traffic stop. At the time of his arrest, he lacked a valid driver’s license and presented false identification to officers.

After serving his sentence for the drug-related offense, Martinez-Hernandez was transferred into ICE custody. A review of his immigration history confirmed that he had unlawfully entered the United States without being inspected or admitted by immigration officials. He had no pending legal pathway to remain in the country and had not applied for any form of relief or protection under immigration law.

ICE has initiated removal proceedings against Martinez-Hernandez, who will remain in custody at a secure immigration detention facility while awaiting a hearing before an immigration judge. Due to the nature of his criminal conviction and unlawful presence, he is considered a priority for removal under current immigration enforcement protocols.

ICE confirmed that Martinez-Hernandez will be detained through the duration of his immigration case. There is no indication that he qualifies for bond or release, and officials anticipate a final order of removal to be issued in the near future.