The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada said it will seek further legal action after a court ordered the release of a man convicted of murder and identified by the Department of Homeland Security as a member of the MS-13 gang.
United States District Judge Richard F. Boulware II ordered the release despite objections from federal officials.
“Our office remains committed to protecting public safety and enforcing the law remain top priorities,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “In this matter, however, the outcome results in the release of a convicted murderer and known MS-13 gang member into the community, raising serious public-safety concerns. We are deeply troubled by the risks posed to the public and will continue to pursue all lawful avenues to address those concerns and safeguard the community.”
The man has a final order of removal from the United States. Federal law requires people with final removal orders to remain in immigration custody for a set period so removal can be carried out and to help protect public safety. Officials say releasing him conflicts with that law.
While the man’s immigration case was ongoing, the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit declined to block his removal and ordered that it proceed. That decision triggered the mandatory detention period required under federal immigration law.
In accordance with the court order, the man was released on January 22, 2026. Federal officials faced possible sanctions, including being held in contempt, if they did not comply with the order.
