DEL RIO, Texas – Border Patrol agents assigned to the Eagle Pass Station apprehended a convicted sex offender, near downtown Eagle Pass.
“I am very proud of our men and women for their vigilance and dedication to keeping these types of criminals off our streets and out of our communities,” said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Rodolfo Karisch.
Rafael Castañeda-Espinoza, 59, was encountered by Border Patrol agents on Sept. 7, at approximately 9:30 p.m. Agents determined that Castañeda-Espinoza was an undocumented immigrant from Mexico. Castañeda-Espinoza was transported to the Eagle Pass South Station for processing. Record checks revealed Castañeda-Espinoza had an extensive criminal history dating back to 1978. Castañeda-Espinoza was charged with “aggravated sexual assault with a child” on June 15, 1989 in Fort Worth and was sentenced to 12 years confinement on Oct. 1, 1991. Castañeda-Espinoza has an extensive immigration history and multiple deportations.
Castañeda-Espinoza will be charged with illegal re-entry of an aggravated felon – 8 USC § 1326 – and his prior order of removal will be reinstated.
The Del Rio Border Patrol Sector is part of the Joint Task Force-West South Texas Corridor, which leverages federal, state and local resources to combat transnational criminal organizations. During the FY 2015, which started Oct. 1, 2015, Del Rio Sector agents have apprehended 12 previously deported sex offenders. To report suspicious activity call the Del Rio Sector’s toll free number at 1-866-511-8727.