Escaped smuggler arrested by Border Patrol agents

El Centro Sector Border Patrol apprehended a 27-year-old male suspect who escaped from custody while receiving a medical evaluation at El Centro Regional Medical Center.

Raul Esparza was arrested by Border Patrol agents on Tuesday, February 7 for felony alien smuggling charges. While in custody, Esparza requested medical attention and was taken to El Centro Regional Medical Center for treatment. While at the medical facility, he escaped from custody the next morning.

Agents said they conducted an extensive search at and around the hospital but couldn’t find Esparza. Tips from the public helped them locate and arrest Esparza in El Centro. His arrest was announced on Tuesday, February 14.

“Applying the basic principles of community policing, I had a high level of confidence that this fugitive would be captured after notifying the residents of the Imperial Valley,” said Assistant Chief Patrol Agent David Kim. “Most people want to do the right thing and the tips we received that led to Mr. Esparza’s arrest demonstrate that the residents here are committed to community safety.”

Esparza is expected to be processed and charged with felony alien smuggling, agents said in a release.