LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national, with felony convictions, made his initial court appearance today to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country.
“Our immigration laws are designed to protect the integrity of our borders and the safety of our communities Individuals who repeatedly violate removal orders and return to the United States after committing serious felonies will be held accountable,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “This office remains committed to prosecuting repeat offenders who disregard our laws.”
Gerardo Macias-Gonzalez is charged with one count of deported alien found in the United States. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for October 9, 2026, before United States Magistrate Judge Brenda Weksler.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made during court proceedings, Macias-Gonzalez is a citizen and national of Mexico who was previously deported on or about October 8, 2019, and July 27, 2020, and reentered the United States illegally. On September 14, 2026, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Las Vegas Fugitive Operations Team arrested Macias-Gonzalez in a targeted operation.
Macias-Gonzalez has prior felony convictions for Battery Resulting in Substantial Bodily Harm, and Deported Alien found Unlawfully in the United States, the same offence he is currently charged with.
If convicted, Macias-Gonzalez faces the maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison, a three-year term of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Field Office Director Jason Knight made the announcement.
The ICE Salt Lake City, Las Vegas Sub-Office investigated this case; and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada is prosecuting the case.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
A complaint is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.