Dallas Man Charged for Stolen Car, Drugs, and ICE Detainer

Ricardo Velazquez Esterez faces multiple charges after police found him driving a stolen Toyota Camry with prescription drugs.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

A 45-year-old Dallas man, Ricardo Velazquez Esterez, was arrested and jailed in Wichita County, Texas on several charges after police confirmed he was driving a stolen white Toyota Camry with an Arizona license plate. During the traffic stop, police found multiple prescription drug bottles containing Clonazepam, Tamsulosin, and Levetiracetam in the vehicle, none of which were prescribed to Velazquez Esterez. In addition to the unauthorized use of a vehicle and drug possession charges, Velazquez Esterez is also being held without bond on an ICE detainer.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in dealing with repeat offenders, stolen vehicles, and illegal drug possession, especially in border regions where immigration status can also be a factor. It raises questions about bail reform, public safety, and the need for better coordination between local police and federal immigration authorities.

The details

According to the police report, officers initiated a traffic stop on Velazquez Esterez around 10:30 pm on February 23rd after learning the Toyota Camry he was driving had been reported stolen out of Dallas. During the search of the vehicle, police found four prescription drug bottles containing various controlled substances, none of which were prescribed to Velazquez Esterez. The drugs included Clonazepam, Tamsulosin, and Levetiracetam.

  • On February 23, 2026, police initiated a traffic stop on Velazquez Esterez around 10:30 pm.
  • Velazquez Esterez was arrested and jailed in Wichita County on February 23, 2026.

The players

Ricardo Velazquez Esterez

A 45-year-old Dallas resident who was arrested and charged with unauthorized use of a vehicle, possession of dangerous drugs, and possession of a controlled substance.

Wichita Falls Police Department

The law enforcement agency that conducted the traffic stop, search, and arrest of Velazquez Esterez.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal immigration agency that has placed a detainer on Velazquez Esterez, meaning he is being held without bond due to his immigration status.

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What’s next

Velazquez Esterez will remain in custody without bond due to the ICE detainer, and the case will proceed through the criminal justice system.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for continued coordination between local police and federal immigration authorities to address complex cases involving stolen property, drug crimes, and immigration violations in order to improve public safety.