May 18, 2007

ICE Repatriates Mexican Woman Sought for Questioning in Rape And Murder Of 10-Year-Old Girl

SAN YSIDRO, Calif. – A woman wanted in Mexico for her possible role in the rape and murder of a 10-year-old girl was turned over to Mexican law enforcement officials here today following her arrest by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers in Anaheim, Calif.

Members of ICE's fugitive operations team and the U.S. Marshals Pacific South West Regional Fugitive Task Force took Lura Garrido Hernandez, aka Lura Garrido Juarez, 20, into custody yesterday morning on immigration violations. Officers say the woman, who also goes by the name "La Chola," offered no resistance when they arrived at her residence at 114 East Mills Drive. Hernandez was arrested after ICE received a tip regarding her possible whereabouts from authorities in the Los Angeles Regional Office of Mexico's Attorney General.

According to Mexican authorities, Hernandez is wanted in the state of Hidalgo for questioning in connection with the September 2004 beating death of Sayra Jessica Atenco Becerra. Becerra disappeared after she went to the local store in her hometown of Apan. Four days later, the girl's mutilated body was discovered at an Apan landmark known as "Las Galeras," an old hacienda that, according to local lore, was once used for satanic rituals and sacrifices. Mexican authorities believe Becerra's body was mutilated in an attempt to hide evidence of the rape and sexual abuse.

"Since January of last year, ICE's Los Angeles fugitive operations teams have taken custody of more than 40 foreign nationals who were being sought in their native countries for serious crimes, including rape and murder," said Jim Hayes, director of ICE's Los Angeles field office. "As a result of ICE's efforts, these suspects have been returned to their home countries to face justice. The message for violent fugitives who flee to the United States is clear - you can't outrun the law."

Hernandez was handed over to representatives from the Mexican Attorney General's Office at the San Ysidro border crossing this morning. Mexican authorities advise she will be transferred to Hidalgo for questioning regarding her possible role in the 2004 murder.

-- ICE --