DEMING, N.M. – U.S. Border Patrol Agents from the Deming Station arrested a Mexican National on January 3 who is being sought by authorities from Mexico on homicide charges.
The arrest came after Border Patrol agents utilizing camera technology spotted several subjects entering the U.S., then walking north of the border, west of the Columbus, N.M. Port of Entry. Agents on the ground were guided by a camera operator to a remote location northeast of the entry point. Agents searched the area, then located footprints of the subjects. Agents found them while attempting to conceal themselves behind nearby brush.
Each subject was questioned and admitted to being in the United States illegally, then placed into custody. They were then transported to the Deming Border Patrol Station for processing. Background information revealed that one subject, 29-year-old Francisco Esparza Gallegos, had an extensive criminal history. His current charges included homicide in Mexico, and charges related to re-entry of a deported migrant. Agents in the field, along with the Border Patrol’s Foreign Operations Branch, contacted the Attorney General of Mexico to confirm charges. Esparza was transported to the Luna County Detention Center pending criminal prosecution for illegal re-entry, and will be extradited at a later date.
This incident demonstrates how vigilance by U.S. Border Patrol Agents, and the ability to rapidly respond, is instrumental in keeping our nation’s borders safe.
