Juana Garcia-Mateo/Guatemala/DUI, Drug Possession with Intent to Sell

ICE New Orleans arrested Juana Garcia-Mateo, a citizen of Guatemala and an illegal alien present in the United States. Garcia-Mateo was taken into custody during a targeted enforcement action aimed at locating foreign nationals with criminal histories. At the time of her arrest, she had no lawful immigration status and no pending applications for relief or adjustment.

Garcia-Mateo’s criminal history includes a felony conviction for possession of a Schedule II controlled substance with intent to resell, a serious offense that indicates involvement in drug trafficking. Schedule II substances include highly addictive narcotics such as cocaine, methamphetamine, and oxycodone. Court records indicate that she was found in possession of significant quantities packaged for distribution. This conviction places her among high-priority targets for immigration enforcement due to the public safety threat posed by narcotics distribution.

In addition to the drug trafficking charge, Garcia-Mateo has a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI), reflecting a disregard for public safety. She has also been cited for driving without a valid license and for an open container violation, both of which further highlight a pattern of illegal behavior and noncompliance with state laws.

ICE officers apprehended Garcia-Mateo without incident. She was processed and placed into immigration removal proceedings. She will remain in ICE custody pending review by an immigration judge and possible deportation to Guatemala.