“Our agents are committed to keeping the country safe,” said Chief Rodolfo Karisch, U.S. Border Patrol, Del Rio Sector. “Apprehending criminals previously convicted of felonies, as they attempt to enter the United States illegally, is one of the many ways we accomplish our mission.”

Agents patrolling a ranch near the Rio Grande River encountered Jose Margarito Rivera-Mendez, 35, an undocumented immigrant from Mexico. During processing, agents discovered that Rivera-Mendez had been previously deported from the United States and was a convicted sex offender. Criminal records checks revealed Rivera-Mendez was convicted of a felony in High Point, N.C. in 2003 for indecency with a child. He was sentenced to 15-18 months confinement. After serving his time he was deported on Jan. 22, 2005.

This arrest comes two days after Carrizo Springs agents apprehended another Mexican national who had been deported following a sexual offense conviction.

Rivera-Mendez faces a charge of illegal entry after removal - 8 USC § 1326 - and his prior order of removal will be reinstated.

The Del Rio Border Patrol Sector is part of the South Texas Campaign, which leverages federal, state and local resources to combat transnational criminal organizations. To report suspicious activity call the Del Rio Sector’s toll free number at 1-866-511-8727.