Federal authorities arrested a Salvadoran national in Orange County, New York, who is wanted in El Salvador on homicide and narcotics trafficking charges, according to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
The arrest involved coordination between Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Federal Bureau of Investigation and highlights how federal agencies use joint task forces to locate foreign fugitives living unlawfully in the United States.
Alejandro Perla Cruz, 37, was taken into custody April 13 during a targeted enforcement operation in Middletown, New York. Officials said officers assigned to Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Newburgh sub-office worked alongside agents from the FBI Hudson Valley Safe Streets Task Force during the arrest.
According to federal officials, investigators received intelligence on April 7 regarding Perla Cruz’s whereabouts and confirmed he was unlawfully present in the United States and wanted in El Salvador. Authorities then planned a coordinated operation to take him into custody.
At approximately 6 a.m. on April 13, officers conducted a vehicle stop, confirmed his identity, and arrested him without incident, according to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Federal officials said Perla Cruz is an alleged member of MS-13 and is wanted in El Salvador on charges including homicide and narcotics trafficking. Authorities did not specify when the alleged crimes occurred.
Officials said Perla Cruz entered the United States at an unknown date and location without inspection by an immigration officer.
“ICE New York City will not allow violent criminals to evade justice within the United States,” said Kenneth Genalo, field office director for Enforcement and Removal Operations in New York City. He said protecting local communities remains a priority for the agency.
FBI Assistant Director in Charge James Barnacle Jr. said the Hudson Valley Safe Streets Task Force worked with federal immigration authorities to locate and arrest the suspect.
“Federal law enforcement partners worked together to arrest this individual and protect communities from dangerous offenders living in the country unlawfully,” Barnacle said.
Perla Cruz remains in immigration custody pending removal proceedings. Federal officials said he is expected to be returned to El Salvador to face charges there.
MS-13, also known as Mara Salvatrucha, has been the subject of federal gang enforcement efforts for years, particularly in the Northeast and other regions where the organization has operated.
Authorities did not announce a timeline for extradition or removal proceedings.
