Two Venezuelan nationals, Johan Jose Martinez-Rangel and Franklin Pena, have been accused of the brutal murder of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray in Houston, Texas.

The suspects were previously released into the United States by Biden's Department of Homeland Security (DHS) after crossing the southern border, as Breitbart reports.

Arrests Made in Houston

Martinez-Rangel, 22, and Pena, 26, were arrested by the Houston Police Department in connection with the murder of Nungaray. The murder occurred in the early morning hours of June 17.

Both suspects had previously entered the United States illegally and were released by DHS after crossing the southern border near El Paso, Texas. Martinez-Rangel was apprehended by Border Patrol agents and released the same day with a Notice to Appear (NTA) before a federal immigration judge.

Similarly, Pena was apprehended near El Paso on May 28 and released the same day with an NTA, just 20 days before the murder.

Martinez-Rangel and Pena are among the 7.4 million migrants currently living in the U.S. while awaiting deportation hearings. According to a spokesperson with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), both men are “illegally present Venezuelan nationals.”

Events Leading to the Murder

On the night of June 16, Jocelyn snuck out of her apartment after her mother went to sleep. Surveillance cameras later captured her at a 7/11 store with Martinez-Rangel and Pena.

Between 1:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m., police allege that Martinez-Rangel and Pena strangled Jocelyn under a bridge and left her body in a creek. Prosecutors stated that the defendants lured Jocelyn under the bridge, removed her pants, tied her up, and killed her before throwing her body into the bayou.

Jocelyn’s body was discovered in the creek later on June 17. The brutal nature of the crime has shocked the local community and brought attention to the circumstances of the suspects' release into the U.S.

Suspects Held in Harris County Jail

Martinez-Rangel and Pena are currently held in Harris County Jail with a bail request of $1 million each. ICE agents have placed a detainer on both suspects, requesting custody if they are released from jail.

The case has raised concerns about the policies and procedures followed by DHS in releasing individuals with pending deportation hearings into the U.S. Critics argue that the current system allows potentially dangerous individuals to enter and remain in the country.

Public Reaction and Legal Proceedings

The tragic death of Jocelyn Nungaray has sparked outrage and grief in the Houston community. Local residents and officials have called for a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsible for her death.

Prosecutors are preparing to present their case against Martinez-Rangel and Pena, alleging that the two men intentionally lured, assaulted, and murdered the young girl. The legal proceedings will likely focus on the circumstances of their release and the actions that led to Jocelyn’s death.

As the case unfolds, it is expected to draw significant attention to the broader issues of immigration enforcement and public safety. The outcome of this case may have implications for future policies and the handling of individuals awaiting deportation hearings.

Impact on Immigration Policy

This incident has prompted calls for a reevaluation of DHS practices regarding the release of individuals with pending deportation hearings. Lawmakers and advocacy groups are likely to use this case to push for reforms aimed at improving the safety and security of communities across the country.

In the wake of Jocelyn’s death, there may be increased scrutiny on how immigration authorities manage and monitor individuals released into the U.S. while awaiting their court dates. This case highlights the potential risks associated with the current system and the need for comprehensive immigration reform.

Conclusion

The tragic murder of Jocelyn Nungaray has brought to light significant concerns about immigration policies and the release of individuals with pending deportation hearings. Johan Jose Martinez-Rangel and Franklin Pena, both Venezuelan nationals, were released into the U.S. by DHS and are now accused of her brutal murder.

As legal proceedings continue, this case will likely influence future immigration policies and enforcement practices. The Houston community mourns the loss of Jocelyn and calls for justice and accountability in the wake of this devastating crime.