The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has arrested Ismael Enrique Mendoza Flores, known as ‘El Calaco,’ the most wanted MS-13 gang leader from El Salvador, in a sweeping immigration enforcement operation in Virginia. The arrest, along with multiple other violent offenders, underscores the deepening political divide over immigration policy as the November gubernatorial election approaches. The operation, which also captured a convicted pedophile from Guatemala and a rapist from El Salvador, has intensified debates about border security and the role of sanctuary cities in protecting dangerous individuals.
Homeland Security officials confirmed that Flores, wanted for aggravated homicide and illicit associations in El Salvador, was apprehended in Alexandria following an active arrest warrant from San Salvador. His previous arrest in Virginia for unauthorized use of a vehicle highlighted his criminal history. DHS emphasized that the operation was not hindered by the ‘Democrats’ government shutdown,’ as officials vowed to secure the border despite political tensions.
The arrest of Flores has become a focal point in the heated race between Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears and Democratic former Rep. Abigail Spanberger. Earle-Sears, a strong advocate for immigration enforcement, has positioned herself as the candidate who will protect Virginians, while Spanberger has pointed to her federal agent experience to address law-and-order concerns. The case has also drawn attention to the broader issue of sanctuary cities in Virginia, with officials accusing some lawmakers of enabling violent criminals.
In addition to Flores, the operation included the arrest of Rick Martinez-Lopez, a convicted pedophile from Guatemala, and Ricardo Leonel Mejia, an El Salvadoran rapist who had previously been sentenced to 30 years in prison for sexually abusing an 11-year-old Virginia girl. Both men were released by local authorities under the Biden administration’s policies but were later apprehended by ICE following detainers. Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin condemned the release of these individuals, calling it ‘barbaric’ and ‘unconscionable,’ and accused sanctuary politicians of endangering public safety.
McLaughlin’s comments reflect the growing concern over the impact of lax immigration policies on public safety. She emphasized that the Biden administration’s non-enforcement priorities have allowed dangerous individuals to remain free, posing a threat to communities. The high-profile arrests have intensified the political debate over immigration, with both candidates leveraging the issue to gain support. As the November election approaches, the arrest of these criminals has become a symbol of the broader ideological battle over border control and law enforcement in Virginia.