San Antonio, Texas, January 11, 2026
Federal prosecutors in Texas have unveiled a significant enforcement action, filing 735 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases within a three-week period. These cases focus on individuals with past violent crime convictions, driving while intoxicated offenses, and human trafficking activities. Notably, the cases include that of Kenya Rodriguez-Marcial, who was charged with conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens. These actions reflect ongoing efforts to strengthen border security and crackdown on immigration violations in the region.
San Antonio, Texas – Federal Prosecutors File 735 New Immigration Cases in Three Weeks
San Antonio, Texas – Federal prosecutors in the Western District of Texas have filed 735 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases between December 19, 2025, and January 8, 2026. These cases target individuals with prior convictions for violent crimes, driving while intoxicated (DWI), human smugglers, and those with multiple prior removals from the United States.
Details of Recent Cases
Among the recent cases, U.S. citizen Kenya Rodriguez-Marcial was arrested on December 24, 2025, and charged with conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens. Rodriguez-Marcial attempted to enter the U.S. via pedestrian lanes at the Bridge of the Americas Port of Entry, claiming she was going to pick up items for Christmas dinner. Upon inspection, authorities discovered a stack of $100 U.S. bills in her purse, leading to her arrest.
Background on Immigration Enforcement in Texas
The Western District of Texas has been actively pursuing immigration-related cases, with 316 new cases filed from December 5 to December 11, 2025, and 468 new cases filed from November 21 to December 4, 2025. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to enhance border security and address illegal immigration.
Additionally, the Southern District of Texas has been involved in similar enforcement actions, charging over 300 individuals in border security-related cases in the week of May 2-8, 2025. These ongoing efforts reflect a continued commitment to addressing immigration violations and related criminal activities in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the significance of the 735 new immigration cases filed in the Western District of Texas?
The 735 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases filed between December 19, 2025, and January 8, 2026, target individuals with prior convictions for violent crimes, driving while intoxicated (DWI), human smugglers, and those with multiple prior removals from the United States.
Can you provide more details about the case involving Kenya Rodriguez-Marcial?
Kenya Rodriguez-Marcial, a U.S. citizen, was arrested on December 24, 2025, and charged with conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens. She attempted to enter the U.S. via pedestrian lanes at the Bridge of the Americas Port of Entry, claiming she was going to pick up items for Christmas dinner. Upon inspection, authorities discovered a stack of $100 U.S. bills in her purse, leading to her arrest.
How does this recent activity compare to previous immigration enforcement actions in Texas?
The Western District of Texas has been actively pursuing immigration-related cases, with 316 new cases filed from December 5 to December 11, 2025, and 468 new cases filed from November 21 to December 4, 2025. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to enhance border security and address illegal immigration.
What is the role of the Southern District of Texas in immigration enforcement?
The Southern District of Texas has been involved in similar enforcement actions, charging over 300 individuals in border security-related cases in the week of May 2-8, 2025.
What are the broader implications of these enforcement actions?
These ongoing efforts reflect a continued commitment to addressing immigration violations and related criminal activities in the region, aiming to enhance border security and uphold the rule of law.
Key Features of Recent Immigration Enforcement Actions in Texas
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of New Cases | 735 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases filed between December 19, 2025, and January 8, 2026. |
| Targeted Individuals | Individuals with prior convictions for violent crimes, driving while intoxicated (DWI), human smugglers, and those with multiple prior removals from the United States. |
| Notable Case | Kenya Rodriguez-Marcial, a U.S. citizen, arrested on December 24, 2025, and charged with conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens. |
| Comparison to Previous Actions | 316 new cases filed from December 5 to December 11, 2025, and 468 new cases filed from November 21 to December 4, 2025. |
| Southern District’s Role | Charged over 300 individuals in border security-related cases in the week of May 2-8, 2025. |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
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