Houston man sentenced for illegal reentry

Odon Chavez-Esquivel received 21 months in federal prison for third illegal border crossing

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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A 38-year-old Mexican national residing illegally in Houston, Odon Chavez-Esquivel, has been sentenced to 21 months in federal prison for illegally reentering the United States for the third time, according to U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. Chavez-Esquivel pleaded guilty to the charges on September 30, 2025.

Why it matters

Illegal border crossings and repeat offenses remain a significant challenge for federal immigration authorities, with the Biden administration continuing to grapple with how to balance border security, immigration reform, and humanitarian concerns.

The details

Chavez-Esquivel was previously deported from the U.S. in 2015 and 2019 but illegally reentered the country on multiple occasions. His latest conviction and sentence are part of the federal government's ongoing efforts to prosecute and deter repeat illegal border crossings.

  • Chavez-Esquivel pleaded guilty on September 30, 2025.
  • Chavez-Esquivel was previously deported from the U.S. in 2015 and 2019.

The players

Odon Chavez-Esquivel

A 38-year-old Mexican national residing illegally in Houston who has been sentenced to 21 months in federal prison for illegally reentering the United States for the third time.

Nicholas J. Ganjei

The U.S. Attorney who announced Chavez-Esquivel's sentencing.

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The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by federal authorities in securing the U.S. border and addressing repeat illegal border crossings, an issue that continues to be a point of political debate and policy focus.