Koukeo Sphabmixay/Laos/Drug Possession, Willfully Firing a Gun

ICE San Diego arrested Koukeo Sphabmixay, a 53-year-old citizen of Laos who is illegally present in the United States. Sphabmixay’s criminal history includes convictions for drug possession and willfully discharging a firearm. His offenses involve both dangerous narcotics activity and the reckless use of a weapon, creating significant legal consequences and placing him under federal enforcement focus.

Sphabmixay’s prior drug possession conviction involved controlled substances that are prohibited under state and federal law, highlighting his disregard for regulations meant to protect communities from the harms of illegal drugs. In a separate case, he was convicted of willfully firing a gun, a serious offense that demonstrates both recklessness and a threat to public safety. Firearms-related convictions are treated with heightened scrutiny in immigration enforcement, particularly when combined with other criminal conduct.

ICE officers identified Sphabmixay as a priority for arrest due to his criminal record and unlawful presence in the country. After confirming his location, enforcement officers apprehended him in the San Diego area without incident. He was then processed and transported to ICE custody for detention pending the outcome of his immigration proceedings.

Sphabmixay remains in federal custody while his case is reviewed by an immigration judge. If ordered removed, he will be deported to Laos in accordance with federal law. Authorities will also examine whether his criminal convictions qualify for aggravated felony treatment under immigration statutes, which could result in permanent inadmissibility to the United States. His arrest reflects ongoing targeted enforcement actions against individuals whose criminal conduct involves both drugs and firearms.