ICE arrests illegal immigrant pedophile in California

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reported that ICE agents arrested Ezequiel Cruz-Rodríguez in San Diego, an illegal Mexican immigrant with a lengthy criminal record who was living with his wife, who ran a home daycare. Cruz-Rodríguez had been deported three times previously, was a documented member of the Logan Heights gang, and had convictions for sexual crimes against a minor, sexual assault, illegal possession of firearms, robbery, and driving under the influence. DHS described the situation as “repugnant,” noting that this convicted pedophile was residing in an environment intended for child care, which posed a direct threat to children’s safety.

Authorities praised ICE’s efforts in removing this individual from the community. This case is part of a broader strategy under the Trump administration, which in recent months has intensified operations in California against the so-called “worst of the worst.” In Los Angeles alone, between June and August 2025, ICE arrested more than 5,000 illegal immigrants with serious criminal backgrounds, including rapists, gang members, murderers, and sex offenders, reaffirming the focus on protecting citizens from dangerous criminals hiding under the protection of California’s “sanctuary state” policies.