ICE arrests illegal alien child sex offender living in San Diego daycare center

Ezequiel Cruz-Rodriguez, of Mexico, had been living with his wife, a Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipient, who operates an active daycare out of their home, according to a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) press release.

DHS said Cruz-Rodriguez has an extensive criminal history with three prior removals from the United States. He is also a documented member of the Logan Heights gang, a notorious Mexican American street gang that originated in San Diego, California.

Cruz-Rodriguez's criminal history includes convictions for sex offenses involving a child under 14, sexual battery, illegal possession of a firearm, driving under the influence (DUI), and robbery, according to ICE.

"It is SICKENING to think this pedophile criminal illegal alien was residing inside the home where a daycare operates and hiding out in a sanctuary city," a senior DHS official said in a press release. “Thanks to the brave work of our ICE law enforcement officers, this criminal illegal alien, convicted pedophile, and known Logan Heights gang member - will no longer be able to prey on children inside a daycare. Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, sickos like this will not walk free in the US."

Cruz-Rodriguez was first removed from the United States in August 1996 after an immigration judge issued a final order of removal. He was removed a second time in October 2003 and again in December 2012, according to DHS. The federal agency said that Cruz-Rodriguez illegally re-entered the US after his previous deportations at an unknown date and time.

The arrest comes as the Trump administration ramps up immigration enforcement operations in sanctuary jurisdictions, targeting the worst-of-the-worst criminal offenders who are unlawfully present in the United States. San Diego is among one of California's self-declared sanctuary cities.

Members of the public can report immigration-related crimes or suspicious activity by calling (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.