FBI Arrests Convicted Felon for Illegal Re-Entry

Angel Roman-Hipolito, a Mexican citizen, was wanted for violating supervised release after a prior drug trafficking conviction.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The FBI has arrested a 37-year-old Mexican citizen, Angel Roman-Hipolito, for allegedly re-entering the United States illegally after being deported in 2023 following a drug trafficking conviction. Roman-Hipolito was wanted for violating the terms of his supervised release and was located and taken into custody in Boone County as part of a multi-agency operation.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by federal authorities to locate and apprehend convicted felons who have illegally re-entered the country after being deported. Illegal re-entry is a serious crime that can pose a threat to public safety, and the FBI works closely with partners like Immigration and Customs Enforcement to identify and remove these individuals from communities.

The details

According to the FBI, Roman-Hipolito previously served over 8 years in federal prison on drug trafficking charges. In 2025, he fled from police during a traffic stop, prompting authorities to issue a federal warrant for his arrest. When taken into custody, Roman-Hipolito provided officers with a false name and identification documents.

  • In 2023, Roman-Hipolito was deported from the United States.
  • In the spring of 2025, Roman-Hipolito fled from police during a traffic stop.
  • On March 9, 2026, Roman-Hipolito was located and arrested in Boone County as part of Operation No Escape.

The players

Angel Roman-Hipolito

A 37-year-old Mexican citizen who was previously convicted of drug trafficking and deported from the United States in 2023, but later illegally re-entered the country.

FBI Indianapolis

The local field office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation that led the investigation and arrest of Roman-Hipolito.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal agency that collaborated with the FBI on the investigation and arrest of Roman-Hipolito.

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What they’re saying

“Operation No Escape shows that violent fugitives cannot hide from justice. No matter how far someone tries to run or what obstacles they create, our teams will find them.”

— Timothy J. O'Malley, FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge (fox59.com)

What’s next

Roman-Hipolito will face federal charges for illegal re-entry and providing false identification documents. He is expected to appear before a judge in the coming days.

The takeaway

This arrest demonstrates the ongoing collaboration between federal law enforcement agencies to locate and apprehend convicted felons who have illegally re-entered the United States, highlighting the serious consequences for those who attempt to evade justice.