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Trump Administration Works to Prevent Early Release of Undocumented Immigrant Convicted in Fatal DUI Accident
The administration of former President Trump is taking significant measures to avert the premature release of an undocumented immigrant implicated in a tragic 2021 DUI accident that resulted in the deaths of two American teenagers. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt underscored this commitment during an interview on “America Reports,” identifying the case as indicative of broader flaws within the U.S. immigration system.
“President Trump is firmly opposed to illegal immigrant crime,” Leavitt stated, emphasizing that this particular case exemplifies the failures inherent in current immigration laws.
Oscar Eduardo Ortega-Anguiano, who entered the United States illegally, was found guilty in 2022 of gross vehicular manslaughter while under the influence of alcohol. His actions led to a horrific crash that claimed the lives of 19-year-olds Anya Varfolomeev and Nicholay Osokin, both of whom perished in the ensuing blaze after the collision. Despite receiving a 10-year prison sentence, Ortega-Anguiano’s early release is anticipated, sparking outrage among the victims’ families as well as immigration officials.
In response, Leavitt confirmed the administration’s efforts to keep him incarcerated.
Government Action and Coordination
“We are committed to enforcing our immigration laws. Those who violate these laws and inflict harm on law-abiding American citizens must be held accountable to the fullest extent,” she remarked.
According to Tom Homan, the Trump administration’s “border czar,” an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainer has been issued for Ortega-Anguiano, with him coordinating with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to address the situation. California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office has stated that the state will comply with the federal detainer, ensuring that Ortega-Anguiano is handed over to ICE custody before his projected release in July.
Should California officials choose not to cooperate, Leavitt cautioned that the administration stands ready to respond decisively.
Legal Pursuits and Systemic Issues
“The Department of Justice intends to pursue a conviction against this individual that will result in a federal prison sentence for the deaths of these two young Americans,” she added.
Attorney General Pam Bondi expressed her concerns about the unfolding case via a post on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting the need for justice for the victims and their families. “This is absolutely unconscionable. What about justice for these teens? What about the rights of their parents?” Bondi stated, pledging that the Justice Department would work with ICE to ensure Ortega-Anguiano faces appropriate consequences for his crimes.
Leavitt pointed out systemic vulnerabilities in the immigration process, citing Ortega-Anguiano’s history of being deported twice before reentering the country, only to commit a grievous crime upon his return. “This individual was deported twice yet was allowed back, took the lives of two young Americans, and now faces minimal consequences,” she remarked during her appearance on “America Reports,” emphasizing that such situations are intolerable.
Political Climb and Ongoing Challenges
Leavitt also addressed recent judicial rulings that have limited the government’s ability to deport individuals, referencing a district court decision that temporarily barred the application of the Alien Enemies Act against alleged gang members.
Additionally, she criticized certain Democratic lawmakers for visiting deported individuals, including those with alleged gang affiliations, in El Salvador. “It is troubling to see elected officials, who are sworn to protect their law-abiding constituents, prioritize advocating for illegal immigrants and criminals,” she commented, denouncing such actions as lamentable.
Despite facing legal obstacles and political pushback, Leavitt maintained the administration’s unwavering commitment to its immigration policies. “The president is not only striving to win in legal arenas but also in the court of public opinion. He is dedicating himself to upholding the promise of securing our homeland,” she concluded.
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