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FBI Arrests Top MS-13 Leader in Virginia

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Virginia – A significant law enforcement operation led to the capture of one of the highest-ranking leaders of the MS-13 gang on the East Coast. The FBI announced the arrest of Henry Josue Villatoro Santos, a 24-year-old suspect, during a press conference on Thursday morning.

Details of the Arrest

Villatoro Santos was apprehended in Dale City, located just south of Washington, D.C. Officials confirmed that he ranks among the top three leaders of MS-13 in the United States. The operation was a coordinated effort involving multiple agencies, including the FBI, the Prince William County Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the Virginia State Police.

Statements from Officials

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi remarked on the significance of the operation, emphasizing the focused work that led to the suspect’s arrest. “He is an illegal alien from El Salvador, and he will not be living in our country much longer,” Bondi stated during the press briefing.

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, who confirmed the details of the arrest, reinforced the message that Virginia is not a “sanctuary state,” calling for cooperative measures between local authorities and federal immigration agencies to address crime effectively.

Background Context

Governor Youngkin has been vocal about his stance on local governments cooperating with federal immigration authorities, linking the issue to funding challenges for jurisdictions he describes as “sanctuary cities.” Recently, he threatened to withhold state funding from those that do not comply, reinforcing his agenda for law enforcement collaboration against gangs such as MS-13.

This approach reflects a broader strategy that Youngkin first proposed in December and has sought to reinforce further with an amendment to the state budget.

Local Reactions to Policy Changes

The implications of Youngkin’s policies have drawn mixed reactions from local officials. For instance, Fairfax County’s Board of Supervisors Chair, Jeff McKay, expressed concerns that such measures risk “defunding the police.” He argues that Fairfax County adheres to legal detainer requests and emphasized the importance of law enforcement agency funding.

Reactions from National Leaders

In celebration of the successful arrest, former President Donald Trump lauded the efforts of law enforcement leaders involved in the operation, stating, “Great job by Pam Bondi, Kash Patel, Tom Homan, and Kristi N, on the capture of the MS-13 leader – A big deal!” During his administration, Trump prioritized efforts to deport high-ranking members of MS-13 to El Salvador.

This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

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