Immigration Action Following Murder Charges

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has requested Texas authorities not to release an El Salvadoran national accused of murder without notifying the agency. Jefferson Adonay Velasquez-Torres, 18, faces charges for two separate fatal shootings in Houston.

Velasquez-Torres was charged with murder for an April 27 shooting outside a Houston nightclub, resulting in the death of Noah Ramirez, 27, and injuring two others. ICE actively involved in this case expresses concern about the release of Velasquez-Torres without their notification.

Additional Charges and History

Velasquez-Torres previously faced murder charges in June for his alleged role in an August shooting at a house party in Houston, which resulted in the death of Angel Garcia, 17. In connection with Garcia’s death, another suspect, Enrique Aguilar, 19, has also been arrested.

Besides murder, Velasquez-Torres faces charges of unlawfully carrying a weapon and aggravated robbery. The 18-year-old entered the U.S. illegally as a minor in 2014 during President Barack Obama’s administration.

Government’s Position and Enforcement Cooperation

Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis highlighted Velasquez-Torres’ involvement in two murders and criticized previous immigration policies. The statement emphasized the cooperation between ICE and Texas officials to ensure public safety by keeping Velasquez-Torres in custody.

Velasquez-Torres remains held in the Harris County Jail without bond for charges associated with the second shooting, ensuring he does not pose a threat to public safety.