ERO New Orleans Removes Mexican National Citing Aggravated Criminal History
Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) officers with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in New Orleans have completed the removal of Julio Cesar Hernandez-Razo, a national of Mexico. The operation was announced by ERO New Orleans, marking another instance of federal authorities executing final orders of removal for individuals present in the United States unlawfully.
According to the agency, the decision to prioritize Hernandez-Razo for repatriation was heavily influenced by his background. Authorities noted that his criminal history involves aggravated offenses. While specific details of the charges were not immediately itemized in the initial announcement, the designation of “aggravated” conduct acts as a primary accelerant in federal removal proceedings. Hernandez-Razo has been returned to Mexico in coordination with foreign authorities.
The term “aggravated felony” within the context of U.S. immigration law is a legal term of art established by Congress. It covers a broad category of offenses, ranging from violent crimes like assault to non-violent offenses such as theft or fraud, depending on the sentence imposed. ERO’s operational mandate specifically targets non-citizens who have been convicted of such crimes, viewing them as priorities for enforcement to maintain public safety and border integrity.
Despite the stated enforcement priorities, immigration policies involving the removal of individuals with criminal records frequently draw criticism from civil rights organizations and legal advocates. Opponents argue that the “aggravated felony” classification is often applied too broadly, encompassing offenses that state courts may treat as minor or non-violent misdemeanors. Critics also frequently raise objections regarding the speed of removal operations, contending that the expedited nature of these proceedings can sometimes limit an individual’s access to adequate legal counsel or the ability to appeal based on family ties and community tenure. ICE maintains that all removals are conducted in accordance with federal law and only after all due process rights have been exhausted.
