Illegal aliens tied to gangs targeted
FED SWEEP | They account for 22 of 26 arrests: officials

June 19, 2010

BY ART GOLAB Staff Reporter/agolab@suntimes.com
Immigration agents and local police departments this week arrested 26 people in eight area communities in a sweep targeting illegal aliens with ties to street gangs.

Of those arrested, 22 are Mexican nationals who are documented members of street gangs, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

"ICE works closely with our local law enforcement partners to identify, locate and arrest these gang members in the name of public safety," said Gary Hartwig, ICE special agent in charge in Chicago.

One of those arrested, Rudolfo Lira, 38, was wanted on a Cook County warrant. He will be turned over for deportation after facing criminal charges.

All of the others could be deported in a matter of days if they waive their right to a hearing, said ICE spokeswoman Gail Montenegro.

Three of the arrested, also Mexican nationals, are here illegally but have no connection to street gangs, ICE said. Also caught up in the sweep was a U.S. citizen, Norma Parada-Lopez, 22, of Palatine, charged with battery and resisting a peace officer while ICE agents were arresting another target.

Most of the arrests -- 13 -- were in Palatine. One person was arrested in Chicago and others in northwest suburban Elgin, Hanover Park, Palatine, Rolling Meadows, Streamwood and Wheeling, authorities said.

ICE does not release the names of those it arrests on administrative immigration violations.

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