Alien Charged With Illegally Re-entering U.S. After Removal
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - An individual found in Latrobe, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of re-entry into the United States after deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Joviniano Cruz-Perez a/k/a Jose Cruz, 23, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Joviniano Cruz-Perez a/k/a Jose Cruz, an alien, was formally removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on June 20, 2007; March 13, 2008; and May8, 2009. Joviniano Cruz-Perez was found on June 30, 2011, in Latrobe.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for April 26, 2012 at 2:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul E. Hull is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Joviniano Cruz-Perez a/k/a Jose Cruz.
