In addition to a violation of immigration law, it is a federal crime to reenter the United States after a previous removal (without permission to reenter). When caught at the border or port of entry, without permission to reenter, you are likely to face prosecution and significant prison time.
Now more than ever, the U.S. Attorney’s Offices prosecute illegal reentry cases. It is now a clear priority of the federal Department of Justice to focus on the prosecution of immigration crimes to the fullest extent.
If you have been charged, make sure to reach out to an Atlanta illegal reentry lawyer at STERN Law today.
Illegal Reentry (8 U.S.C. § 1326)
If someone who has been deported, removed, or excluded from the United States returns or attempts to return without permission, that person is usually charged with Illegal Reentry. Illegal Reentry can result in serious, long-term punishment.
The penalty for this crime largely depends on a defendant’s criminal history:
If removal was after a conviction for a felony, or three or more misdemeanors involving drugs or crimes against a person — 10 YEARS
If removal was after a conviction for an aggravated felony — 20 YEARS
If removed after being released early from a sentence of imprisonment — 10 YEARS
If excluded because of terrorist activities — 10 YEARS
