ICE Officer Indicted in Immigration Bribery Scheme
An ICE officer and three bail bondsmen were indicted on July 2, 2025, for a bribery scheme to release illegal immigrants from ICE custody.
Jose Angel Muniz, 51, allegedly accepted payments to remove detainers, allowing certain detainees to avoid deportation.
According to the Department of Justice, Muniz conspired with Leopoldo Benitez, his son Anthony Benitez, and Isaac Sierra. The bribes benefited “A Way Out Bail Bonds” and “International Bonding Company,” where the men were employed.
U.S. Attorney Nicholas Ganjei stated, “There is no room whatsoever for bribery or side deals when it comes to immigration enforcement.” If convicted, the men face up to 15 years in prison and fines up to $250,000 or the value of the bribes.
The DOJ emphasized the charges are not proof of guilt: “A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.” All four are in custody pending further proceedings.
