Kihonis Javier Acosta/Honduras/Distribution of a Controlled Substance

Kihonis Javier Acosta, a thirty-two-year-old citizen of Honduras illegally present in the United States, was arrested by ICE Salt Lake City officers following his encounter with local law enforcement. Acosta is currently facing pending felony charges related to the distribution of a controlled substance stemming from an arrest in early 2024 in Utah County. According to the arrest affidavit, Acosta was allegedly found in possession of a significant quantity of narcotics, including methamphetamine and heroin, which authorities believe were intended for street-level distribution.

Upon confirmation of his illegal presence in the country, ICE lodged an immigration detainer while Acosta remained in local custody. After he posted bond on the state drug charges, he was transferred directly into ICE custody for immigration enforcement processing. A background check revealed that Acosta had previously entered the U.S. unlawfully without inspection or parole and had no pending applications for relief or lawful status.

ICE has initiated removal proceedings against Acosta, who will remain in immigration detention while his case moves forward. Due to the serious nature of the pending narcotics charges, Acosta is considered a public safety threat and an enforcement priority. ICE has stated that his immigration hearing will determine whether a final order of removal will be issued, which would result in his deportation to Honduras.

ICE continues to hold Acosta in a secure detention facility pending the outcome of his immigration proceedings. He is not eligible for bond due to the severity of the criminal charges against him.