Biden-era decision adds hurdles to convicted murderer’s deportation

In a shocking turn of events, a convicted murderer may be spared from deportation from the United States due to a decision made during the Biden administration. Alexander Alfredo Palacios Guevara, a Salvadoran national with a murder conviction and two counts of attempted murder dating back to 1994, was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Homeland Security Investigations in Los Angeles.

During the arrest, Guevara claimed he had been granted a Deferral of Removal under the Convention Against Torture (DCAT) by the Biden-era Board of Immigration Appeals in December. This means that he believes he faces a risk of torture if he is sent back to El Salvador. This decision has sparked controversy and outrage, as Guevara is not only a member of the violent Surenos gang but also has a history of serious criminal offenses, including assault and rape or sexual abuse of a minor.

An ICE spokesperson expressed concern over the situation, stating that Guevara should never have been allowed to roam the streets of Los Angeles. They emphasized the importance of removing public safety threats from American communities, a sentiment echoed by former President Trump and Secretary Noem. Despite the unusual legal decision that temporarily released Guevara, he was quickly taken back into custody due to the significant public safety risk he poses.

Currently, Guevara remains in federal custody as authorities consider the possibility of sending him to a third country. This strategy has been attempted before with convicted criminals, such as sending them to South Sudan. However, a recent ruling by a Boston federal judge against third-party removals has complicated the situation. The Department of Homeland Security is now awaiting a decision from the Supreme Court on the matter.

When questioned about his criminal history, Guevara simply responded, “I’m free.” His immigration attorney has yet to provide further details about the case or clarify who Guevara believes will torture him in El Salvador.

The arrest of Guevara has brought attention to ICE operations in Los Angeles, leading to protests and riots in the city and across the country. The incident serves as a reminder of the complex and controversial nature of immigration enforcement in the United States. As the legal battle over Guevara’s deportation continues, the nation awaits further developments in this high-profile case.