Columbus, Ohio — A 48-year-old man previously deported twice from the United States now faces federal prison time after being indicted for unlawfully reentering the country. Jaime Fernandez-Alacron was arrested in Ohio last month, triggering a federal grand jury indictment announced this week.
Deportations and Prior Felonies
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Federal court records reveal Fernandez-Alacron was removed from the U.S. in both 2011 and 2020 following serious convictions in New York for federal kidnapping conspiracy and firearms violations — crimes classified as aggravated felonies under immigration law.
Despite being banned from returning, Fernandez-Alacron was taken into custody this May by the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Officers charged him with felony drug possession, driving under the influence, and operating a vehicle without a valid license. His immigration status, uncovered during the arrest, led to a deeper federal investigation and, ultimately, the indictment.
Severe Federal Penalties
Reentering the U.S. after deportation is a federal offense. First-time offenders with no criminal history may face up to two years in prison. But for individuals with past felonies or multiple qualifying misdemeanors, the sentence can rise to 10 years.
In Fernandez-Alacron’s case—due to his aggravated felony conviction—he faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
The indictment was jointly announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Kelly A. Norris for the Southern District of Ohio, Robert Lynch of ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in Detroit, and Col. Charles A. Jones, Superintendent of the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Deputy Criminal Chief Brian J. Martinez will prosecute the case.
