U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deported Nestor Flores Encarnacion, 58, back to Mexico on Thursday, January 2, 2025. Encarnacion, who had been residing in Houston, Texas, is wanted in his home state of Veracruz, Mexico, on charges of child rape. He had illegally entered the United States four times.

Encarnacion’s first three illegal entries occurred in February 2002 near Roma, Texas. Each time, he was apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol and subsequently returned to Mexico. The date and location of his fourth illegal entry remain unknown.

ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Houston Field Office Director Bret A. Bradford stated, “This individual repeatedly violated our nation’s laws to evade prosecution in Mexico for a horrific crime. Southeast Texas will not serve as a refuge for dangerous fugitives accused of such heinous acts.”

On August 23, 2024, ERO Houston officers apprehended Encarnacion at a Houston residence after receiving information about his presence in the area and the outstanding warrant for his arrest in Mexico. Following his apprehension, he was placed in immigration proceedings. An immigration judge granted him voluntary departure on December 19, 2024. On January 2, 2025, deportation officers transported Encarnacion to the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge in Laredo, Texas, where he was handed over to Mexican authorities.

Director Bradford emphasized the commitment of ICE officers to apprehending individuals who pose a threat to public safety, national security, and border security. He affirmed their dedication to ensuring such individuals are repatriated to their countries of origin.