July 7, 2024 – Written by Kristy Tallman
In New York City on June 20, the Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) apprehended Melvin Orlando Hernandez Villanueva, who is an illegal immigrant and wanted by Salvadoran authorities for two counts of aggravated homicide and unlawful association with criminal groups. Hernandez, a member of the MS-13 gang, is currently the subject of an Interpol Red Notice for the aforementioned crimes.
Officers from the Long Island office of ERO Fugitive Operations, accompanied by members of the FBI’s Gang Task Force, apprehended a 27-year-old Salvadoran national near his residence in Queens. The arrest was made without any incident, and a loaded handgun, a box of ammunition, and a small quantity of marijuana were recovered by the officers. Hernandez, who is currently in custody, has been transferred to Central Islip for processing and will remain there until his removal proceedings.
Kenneth Genalo, the ERO New York City Field Office Director, expressed that the MS-13 gang member and violent criminal had a mistaken belief that he could evade murder charges in El Salvador by fleeing to the United States and hiding out in New York City. However, the law enforcement agencies were successful in capturing this international fugitive and repatriating him to his country of origin to face justice. Genalo appreciated the brave efforts and remarkable teamwork of his officers and law enforcement partners in safely removing this dangerous individual from the community.
On March 28, 2019, Salvadoran authorities issued an arrest warrant for Hernandez. He is facing two counts of aggravated homicide and unlawful association. It has been reported that he entered the United States illegally, bypassing designated ports of entry. The date and location of his entry are currently unknown.
Interpol issued a Red Notice for Hernandez on October 2, 2023. The FBI then shared this information with ERO New York City’s Long Island officers on October 12, 2023.
According to Christie M. Curtis, the FBI New York Field Office’s acting Assistant Director in Charge, trying to escape and hide in another country does not absolve one of their crimes, especially murder. Melvin Orlando Hernandez Villanueva, a member of the MS-13 gang, is believed to have been living illegally in New York City to avoid facing charges and consequences for his alleged murder in El Salvador. The FBI’s recent arrest of Hernandez Villanueva shows their dedication to capturing fugitives and keeping dangerous criminals out of our communities.
The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), a branch of the U.S. Department of Justice, oversees the immigration courts responsible for administering legal due process to noncitizens placed in removal proceedings. These courts operate independently from the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Immigration judges evaluate each case on its own merits and make decisions accordingly, while ICE officers enforce the removal orders issued by the judges.
The responsibility of domestic immigration enforcement falls on ERO, the primary federal law enforcement authority. Their primary objective is to detain and remove individuals who pose a threat to the safety of U.S. communities and the integrity of U.S. immigration laws. With over 7,700 employees, ERO operates in 25 domestic field offices, 208 locations nationwide, 30 overseas postings, and multiple temporary duty travel assignments along the border.
To report any criminal activity or suspicious behavior, individuals can contact 866-347-2423 or fill out the online tip form. Stay updated on ERO New York City’s efforts to uphold public safety by following them on X, previously known as Twitter, at @ERONewYork.