ICE arrests illegal immigrant wanted for allegedly murdering Mexican officer
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recently made a significant arrest in New Haven, Connecticut, capturing an illegal immigrant who is wanted for allegedly killing a Mexican law enforcement officer. The individual in question, Orlando Diaz-Cebada, also known as “El Leches,” was apprehended on June 12, 2025. He is believed to be associated with the Los Pochos gang, which collaborates with the Sinaloa Cartel, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin commended the ICE law enforcement officers and federal partners involved in the operation, stating that Diaz-Cebada, a criminal illegal alien fugitive, is now off the streets of America. She emphasized that individuals like him, who are involved in heinous crimes and attempt to evade justice by hiding out in the country, will be pursued and brought to justice. McLaughlin also emphasized that America is not a safe haven for violent criminals and that criminal illegal aliens will not be welcomed in the United States.
Diaz-Cebada entered the U.S. illegally in May 2024 and had been deported twice by the U.S. Border Patrol before his latest arrest in Connecticut. Despite his attempts to re-enter the country, he managed to avoid detection by federal authorities. A document from the attorney general’s office in Tlaxcala, Mexico, revealed that he is wanted in Mexico for aggravated homicide, with an arrest warrant issued in April 2024, prior to his arrival in the U.S.
New Haven, where Diaz-Cebada was apprehended, is considered a sanctuary city. The city’s Mayor Justin Elicker has previously championed policies that prioritize the safety and well-being of all residents, regardless of immigration status. Elicker emphasized the importance of ensuring that residents feel safe accessing public services and seeking assistance from law enforcement without fear of immigration enforcement actions.
In response to Diaz-Cebada’s arrest, a spokesperson for the New Haven Police Department expressed support for the efforts of federal partners in apprehending the individual accused of a serious crime. While acknowledging the importance of due process, the spokesperson reiterated the department’s commitment to protecting communities from individuals involved in criminal activities.
The arrest of Orlando Diaz-Cebada serves as a reminder of the dedicated efforts of ICE and other law enforcement agencies in ensuring public safety and upholding the rule of law. By apprehending individuals like Diaz-Cebada, who are accused of serious crimes, authorities are sending a clear message that criminal illegal aliens will be held accountable for their actions.
