Saul Estrada-Gonzalez/Guatemala/First Degree Murder

In May 2025, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) San Francisco arrested Saul Estrada-Gonzalez, a 68-year-old Guatemalan national, following his release from state prison in California. Estrada-Gonzalez had been convicted of first-degree murder in Santa Barbara County and served a lengthy sentence prior to being taken into ICE custody.

The conviction stemmed from a 1990 homicide case in which Estrada-Gonzalez fatally attacked a man during a premeditated assault in Goleta, California. Investigators determined the act was intentional and driven by a personal dispute. He was arrested shortly after the incident and later convicted of first-degree murder. He received a lengthy prison sentence and remained in state custody for over three decades.

ICE identified Estrada-Gonzalez as a removable noncitizen based on his felony conviction and lack of legal immigration status. An immigration detainer was issued with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation ahead of his scheduled release. ERO officers took custody of Estrada-Gonzalez immediately after his release and transported him to a federal detention facility for processing.

He is now in ICE custody pending removal proceedings before an immigration judge. Due to the nature of his conviction and his unlawful presence in the United States, ICE officials have confirmed that Estrada-Gonzalez will remain detained throughout the duration of his case.