ICE Arrests Man Wanted for Murder in Honduras During NJ Stop
If you or a family member is arrested by ICE, contact an immigration lawyer right away — many offer free first consultations. Do not sign any documents before speaking with a lawyer, as signing could affect your right to stay in the US. In these situations, people usually ask a lawyer about requesting an immigration bond hearing to seek release from custody while the case is reviewed.
What Happened
ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) in Newark, New Jersey arrested Fredy Alexander Lopez Lara on April 20, 2026, during a targeted enforcement action in Eatontown, NJ. Officers stopped a vehicle Lopez Lara was riding in. They arrested him because he was in the United States without legal status.
After running system checks, ICE officers found that Lopez Lara has an active arrest warrant from Honduras for murder. ICE says he entered the United States illegally, at an unknown date and location, without being inspected, admitted, or paroled by an immigration officer.
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Immigrant rights, appeals and protective measures
Lopez Lara is now in ICE custody and faces removal proceedings — the official legal process that can lead to deportation. ERO Newark Acting Field Office Director Arthur J. Wilson Jr. said ICE works with law enforcement partners around the world to make sure people wanted for violent crimes cannot avoid prosecution by coming to the United States without legal status.
What This Means for the Immigrant Community
This case is a reminder that ICE can make arrests during routine traffic stops. If you or someone you know is stopped by law enforcement, knowing your rights matters. Anyone placed in removal proceedings has the right to appear before an immigration judge, regardless of their immigration status.
What to Do
- If you are stopped by police or ICE, you have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status. Lawyers recommend saying: "I am exercising my right to remain silent."
- If ICE arrests you, you may have the right to an immigration bond hearing — a court hearing where a judge decides if you can be released while your case continues. Contact an immigration lawyer as soon as possible.
- If you have a criminal record in another country, talk to an immigration lawyer before any contact with law enforcement. Outstanding warrants from other countries can affect your immigration case.
- You can report tips about crimes to ICE by calling 866-347-2423 (866-DHS-2-ICE) or using the online tip form on the ICE website.