Jose Rocha-Ontiveros/Mexico/Assault

Jose Rocha-Ontiveros, 45, a Mexican national illegally present in the United States, was arrested by ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations officers in Harlingen, Texas. Rocha was taken into custody following a review of his criminal background, which includes a conviction for assault causing bodily injury to a family member—a domestic violence offense that prompted immigration authorities to take enforcement action.

Rocha had been residing in the country without legal authorization. His arrest followed his conviction in a Texas court for assault involving a family member, which typically involves incidents of physical harm or threats of harm in domestic situations. Cases involving domestic violence are considered serious offenses by immigration authorities, often resulting in prioritized enforcement.

Following his arrest, Rocha was issued a notice to appear before an immigration judge. He has been placed in removal proceedings and will remain in ICE custody during the legal process. Officials confirmed that he has no lawful immigration status and no pending relief that would allow him to remain in the country legally.

Rocha’s detention is part of targeted enforcement efforts that focus on individuals who pose a threat to others or have serious criminal convictions. ICE officers stated that Rocha’s prior offense and unlawful presence warranted detention and initiation of removal proceedings.