A Mexican national with a history of illegal entries into the United States and a prior conviction for sexually abusing a child has been deported, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced. Raymundo Rojas Bacilio, who had been deported five times previously, was removed to Mexico on January 25, 2025.

Rojas's extensive criminal history began with multiple attempts to illegally enter the U.S. near Douglas, Arizona, in May 2002. Each time, he voluntarily returned to Mexico. In January 2012, he attempted to enter the country using fraudulent documents in Nogales, Arizona, but was apprehended. Despite being sent back to Mexico, he returned to Nogales just five days later and again tried to enter using the same fraudulent documents, according to ICE.

Raymundo Rojas Bacilio in custody before his removal to Mexico. (ICE)

A warrant for Rojas's arrest for rape was issued by Mexican authorities in May 2013. He subsequently entered the U.S. illegally at an unknown time and place. In August 2023, he was arrested by the New York Police Department. In September 2024, he was convicted in Brooklyn for sexually abusing an 11-year-old and sentenced to 60 days in jail, six years of probation, and required to register as a sex offender.

ICE agents conducting operations in New York City. (Matt McClain/The Washington Post via Getty Images)

ICE agents arrested Rojas outside his Queens residence in December 2024. ICE officials emphasized the importance of removing individuals who pose a threat to public safety. Brian McShane, acting Field Office Director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in Philadelphia, stated that Rojas's repeated illegal entries and criminal acts represented a significant danger to communities.

Protest against immigration policies in New York City. (Yuki Iwamura/Bloomberg via Getty Images)