A Mexican national, Vicente De La Cruz-Rodriguez, 28, has been charged in Vermont with illegal entry into the United States and eluding examination by immigration officers. The announcement was made by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont.
Rodriguez appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle on November 24, 2025. Judge Doyle ordered that Rodriguez remain detained while the case is pending.
Court records indicate that Rodriguez entered the U.S. from Mexico through Texas in October 2022 and later lived in Addison County, Vermont. On November 10, 2025, he was convicted of first degree aggravated domestic assault in Vermont Superior Court, Addison County, and sentenced to between 59 and 60 days in jail. Homeland Security Investigations arrested him on November 21, 2025, in Rutland, Vermont. Authorities say Rodriguez did not present himself for inspection by an immigration officer as required by law.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office noted: “The complaint contains allegations only and that Rodriguez is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.” If convicted of illegal entry and eluding examination charges, Rodriguez could face up to six months’ imprisonment and a $5,000 fine. Sentencing would be determined by the District Court based on advisory guidelines and statutory factors.
First Assistant United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher said: “I commend the investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations.”
Special Assistant United States Attorney Craig S. Nolan is prosecuting the case; Charles N. Curlett Jr., Assistant Federal Public Defender, represents Rodriguez.
The prosecution falls under Operation Take Back America—a nationwide Department of Justice initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration and targeting cartels as well as transnational criminal organizations to protect communities from violent crime.
