Orlando, FL – A Colombian criminal alien and confessed murderer, Guillermo Perez Alzate, was recently apprehended by an ICE Homeland Security Task Force in Orlando. Perez, a former paramilitary leader, was wanted internationally for his involvement in 29 murders and various drug-related crimes.
Background on Perez and the U.S. Charges
According to ICE, Perez was a former leader of the United Self-Defense Forces of Colombia, a transnational criminal organization that finances its operations through drug trafficking.
- In May 2008, Perez was extradited to the United States to face drug smuggling charges along with 13 other alleged members of the organization.
- He was convicted in Florida for conspiracy to import and traffic cocaine, receiving a 17-year prison sentence.
- During his trial, Perez admitted to murdering 29 people.
Prior Arrests and Legal Proceedings
Perez has a long history of arrests and immigration proceedings in the United States:
- October 2009: Arrested by correctional officers at McRae Correctional Institution, Georgia, for cocaine conspiracy charges.
- 2016–2017: An Orlando immigration judge ordered his removal from the U.S., but the removal was deferred multiple times.
- September 2020: Arrested by Interpol’s Department of Justice Washington for a foreign arrest warrant.
Details of the Recent Arrest
The recent apprehension involved a coordinated effort from multiple agencies under the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF), including:
- HSI Orlando
- Enforcement and Removal Operations Orlando
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection
- U.S. Marshals Service
- IRS
- Florida Department of Law Enforcement
ICE officials confirmed that Perez’s arrest marks a significant step in holding transnational criminals accountable and preventing further drug-related crimes in the United States.
Impact and Public Safety
Authorities emphasized that Perez’s capture is part of a broader initiative to disrupt international drug networks and protect local communities from violent criminal activity.
“The arrest of Guillermo Perez Alzate underscores our commitment to bringing violent criminal aliens to justice and safeguarding communities across the U.S.,” stated ICE officials.
Residents and travelers in Orlando are not directly at risk, but law enforcement reminds the public that coordinated efforts between federal, state, and local agencies are crucial in tackling organized crime.
Conclusion
With the arrest of Guillermo Perez Alzate, authorities have removed a dangerous criminal from U.S. soil. The ICE HSTF continues to monitor and dismantle transnational criminal operations to ensure public safety…