Lufkin, Texas – Rigoberto Rodriguez-Moreno, a 44-year-old Mexican national, could face deportation for a third time after being arrested and charged with unrelated offenses in Angelina County. Rodriguez-Moreno has a history of illegal reentry into the U.S. and criminal activity that has led to his multiple deportations.
A History of Deportations and Convictions
Rodriguez-Moreno was initially deported from the U.S. in 1999, at the age of 19 or 20, following a federal conviction for bringing and harboring undocumented immigrants, a charge related to human smuggling. Despite his deportation, he managed to return to the U.S., only to be deported again in 2017.
In 2015, Rodriguez-Moreno was federally convicted for illegal reentry after being deported. His ability to return to the U.S. after each deportation showcases his familiarity with illegal border crossings, commonly known as working as a coyote (a person who smuggles immigrants into the U.S.).
Recent Arrest and Investigation
On March 4, 2025, federal authorities with Homeland Security learned that Rodriguez-Moreno was in the Angelina County Jail, where he was being held on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and misdemeanor harassment. This led to further investigation into his immigration status.
The investigation, conducted by Lufkin Homeland Security and the Angelina County Sheriff’s Office, confirmed his past deportations and unauthorized entries into the United States.
Operation Take Back America
Rodriguez-Moreno’s case is now part of a broader federal initiative called Operation Take Back America, which is led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Texas.
The operation targets illegal immigration and cartel-related activities, and Rodriguez-Moreno’s case is central to ongoing efforts to curb illegal immigration in the region.
As a repeat offender, Rodriguez-Moreno’s potential deportation represents an ongoing effort by U.S. authorities to crack down on individuals who repeatedly enter the country illegally, in line with stricter immigration enforcement measures under the Department of Justice.
Looking Ahead
Rodriguez-Moreno’s case continues to be prosecuted as part of this federal operation, and his potential third deportation serves as a stark reminder of the legal consequences individuals face when they repeatedly enter the U.S. illegally.