Luis Ernesto Madrid/El Salvador/Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances

Luis Ernesto Madrid, a 34-year-old illegal alien and citizen of El Salvador, was arrested by Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) New Orleans during a targeted operation focused on gang-affiliated individuals residing unlawfully in the United States. Madrid has a known association with the violent criminal gang MS-13 and has a criminal record that includes multiple serious drug trafficking offenses.

His criminal history includes charges of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and possession with intent to distribute. These offenses are consistent with the criminal patterns often observed in organized gang activity, particularly among members and associates of MS-13. Madrid’s suspected affiliation with this transnational gang further elevates the threat he poses to public safety. MS-13 is widely recognized for its involvement in violent crimes, including drug trafficking, extortion, and assault.

Madrid had previously come to the attention of law enforcement due to his suspected role in drug distribution networks operating in the region. His immigration history includes entering the United States illegally without authorization. Following his arrest, Madrid was taken into ICE custody and is now pending removal proceedings.

His detention is part of ongoing enforcement efforts aimed at dismantling gang activity and removing individuals engaged in organized criminal conduct, particularly those residing in the U.S. illegally. He is currently being held at an ICE detention facility.