The Border Patrol Targeting Unit teamed up with ICE ERO to arrest a Mexican national convicted of molestation of a minor and incest in Bellingham, WA. (CBP)
SEATTLE — Immigrations and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol arrested a Mexican national in Bellingham last week who had prior convictions for sexual crimes involving a minor, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
The Border Patrol Blaine Sector Targeting Unit worked with ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations to locate and arrest the individual in Bellingham.
Authorities said the man, a Mexican national, had prior convictions for molestation of a minor and incest. Officers processed him for immigration proceedings as an aggravated felon.
Detention and removal proceedings underway
Following the arrest, officers placed the individual into ICE custody. Officials said removal proceedings are now pending and that the man is expected to be removed from the United States.
Enforcement focus in the Blaine Sector
CBP said the arrest reflects ongoing cooperation between Border Patrol targeting units and ICE to locate noncitizens with serious criminal convictions. The Blaine Sector covers much of northwest Washington, including the U.S.-Canada border region.
Authorities did not release the individual’s name or additional case details.
Regional Context On Blaine Sector Enforcement
The arrest comes as federal authorities continue to highlight enforcement activity across the Blaine Sector, which covers the U.S.-Canada border region in northwest Washington.
In recent months, U.S. Border Patrol has emphasized the use of targeting units to identify individuals with serious criminal convictions. These units review criminal records, immigration data, and law enforcement databases. As a result, officers prioritize arrests tied to public safety concerns.
At the same time, Border Patrol has increased coordination with ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in Whatcom County and nearby areas. According to CBP statements, these joint efforts focus on individuals with violent or sexual offense convictions rather than broad enforcement actions.
However, federal agencies have not said whether the Bellingham arrest was part of a larger operation, but PNW Daily has noticed a noticeable shift in movement of Border Patrol resources within the county.
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