Two previously deported felons have been apprehended in Las Vegas for illegally reentering the United States. David Cristales-Machado, a 35-year-old Salvadoran national, and Juan Manuel Lopez-Mendez, a 35-year-old Mexican national, were taken into custody after separate arrests revealed their unlawful presence in the country.

Cristales-Machado was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on March 22, following an arrest for carrying a concealed weapon without a permit. His criminal history includes three prior felony convictions: two for attempted possession of a stolen vehicle and one for attempted burglary. He had been deported previously in October 2014.

Lopez-Mendez was arrested on March 28 after being charged with possession of a controlled substance. His record comprises two felony convictions: one for transporting a controlled substance and another for attempted possession of a stolen vehicle. He was deported to Mexico in July 2018.

Both men now face federal charges for illegal reentry into the United States. If convicted, Cristales-Machado could face up to 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. Lopez-Mendez faces up to two years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and one year of supervised release. Preliminary hearings for both defendants are scheduled for April 24.

This case underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in preventing repeat offenses by individuals who have previously been deported due to criminal activities. It raises questions about the effectiveness of current immigration policies and the need for stringent measures to ensure public safety. The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to ICE by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE or submitting a tip online.

Source: FOX5 Vegas 

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