Evidence from credible sources supports the statement as accurate. Learn more in Methodology.
Verify the July 2018 removal, any record of illegal re-entry, current ICE custody of Cruz-Ramirez, and reinstatement of his prior removal order.
DHS’s press release says Manuel Cruz‑Ramirez was removed from the U.S. in July 2018, illegally re‑entered at an unknown time and place, and that he is in ICE custody with his prior removal order reinstated. Independent local reporting and federal court filings (U.S. Attorney’s Office — District of Oregon) say Cruz‑Ramirez was previously removed in mid‑2018 (reporting cites June 2018) and that federal illegal‑reentry charges followed his February 3, 2026 apprehension at Portland International Airport; court materials and DOJ/USAO filings show he was identified by fingerprints after presenting an alias passport and has been charged with illegal reentry. The minor discrepancy in the month (June vs. July 2018) does not change the substance that he was previously removed in 2018, illegally re‑entered, and is now in federal/ICE custody with removal proceedings tied to a prior order. Verdict: True — the core elements of the statement are supported, though some sources report June rather than July 2018 for the prior removal date.