U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents apprehended an individual working in agriculture in Thermal, California, who had allegedly hidden a past involving serious criminal charges. The man, identified as an illegal immigrant from Mexico, had previously been charged with rape and sodomy of a drugged victim, as well as assault with a deadly weapon and witness intimidation.
The El Centro Sector of Border Patrol announced the arrest on Wednesday, posting a description of the individual. Thermal is a small unincorporated community in Riverside County, known for its agricultural operations.
Local lawmakers have expressed concern over immigration enforcement tactics in the Coachella Valley. Representative Raul Ruiz, who represents the area, previously described immigration enforcement operations as a "public health crisis," citing disruptions to families and the local workforce.