Guatemalan man arrested in Albertville sentenced to prison for illegal reentry – WHNT.com
A Guatemalan man, Jose J. Lopez, was sentenced to 33 months in prison following his arrest in Albertville for illegal reentry into the United States. The 36-year-old had previously been deported in 2010 after a conviction for robbery in California but re-entered the U.S. illegally in 2021. His arrest occurred in December 2022 after local law enforcement encountered him during a traffic stop.
Lopez’s illegal status was further confirmed through a background check, revealing his prior conviction and deportation history. Federal officials were subsequently notified, leading to his prosecution. The court emphasized the seriousness of repeated unlawful entry, particularly given Lopez’s prior offenses.
Upon completion of his prison sentence, Lopez is expected to face deportation again. This case highlights the ongoing issues surrounding immigration enforcement in the U.S. and the legal consequences for individuals who attempt to re-enter the country after being formally removed. The incident serves as a reminder of the legal frameworks in place regarding immigration and the justice system’s role in handling such cases.
The case was part of a broader effort to enforce immigration laws and address issues related to illegal immigration in the region. Authorities reiterated their commitment to ensuring public safety and upholding the law, while also addressing the challenges posed by immigration issues in local communities.
Read the complete article here: https://whnt.com/news/northeast-alabama/guatemalan-man-arrested-in-albertville-sentenced-to-prison-for-illegal-reentry/