Miguel Rodriguez/Ecuador/Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine

Miguel Rodriguez, a 38-year-old illegal alien and citizen of Ecuador, was arrested by Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) New Orleans following a serious felony drug trafficking conviction. Rodriguez was previously convicted in federal court for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. That offense carries significant sentencing guidelines due to the volume and dangerous nature of the narcotic involved.

Court documents reveal that Rodriguez played a key role in coordinating cocaine transportation and distribution across multiple states, using vehicles outfitted with hidden compartments. He was arrested as part of a broader drug trafficking investigation conducted by federal and state law enforcement agencies. Upon conviction, Rodriguez was sentenced to a federal prison term of 72 months. After serving his sentence, he was immediately taken into ICE custody.

Rodriguez had no legal status in the United States and had entered the country without inspection. ICE officials confirmed that he had no lawful immigration documentation or pending legal claims to remain. Due to the severity of his conviction, Rodriguez was prioritized for removal proceedings.

He is currently being held at an ICE detention facility in Louisiana pending the outcome of immigration court proceedings. ICE has initiated the removal process and will coordinate with Ecuadorian authorities to facilitate deportation upon conclusion of proceedings.