Unexpectedly, a Nevada federal judge, Richard F. Boulware II, who was appointed by Obama, ordered the January 21, 2026, release of Harvey Laureano-Rosales, a 54-year-old El Salvadoran who illegally entered the U.S. in 1987 at age 16 and joined MS-13. The man was later convicted of first-degree murder and other gang-related crimes in 1997. He was paroled in November 2022 after over 25 years in prison.
Next, ICE detained him for deportation, but the judge ruled the government violated due process and the Administrative Procedure Act by attempting removal to Mexico. The U.S. Attorney’s Office raised serious public safety concerns and announced plans for further legal action.
Offering an insight into the situation, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Nevada Sigal Chattah explained, “Our office remains committed to protecting public safety and enforcing the law, which remain top priorities.”
In this matter, however, the outcome results in the release of a convicted murderer and known MS-13 gang member into the community, raising serious public-safety concerns,” he added, blasting the rogue judge for this absurd ruling.
In conclusion, the official stated, “We are deeply troubled by the risks posed to the public and will continue to pursue all lawful avenues to address those concerns and safeguard the community,” adding, “Under federal law, people with final removal orders are required to remain in immigration custody for a set period of time so that removal can be carried out and to help protect public safety. The government maintains that releasing this individual conflicts with that law.”
In the controversial order, District Court Judge Richard Boulware II claimed, “While also acknowledging that he has served a lengthy sentence and been paroled for these crimes. This court has jurisdiction to grant writs of habeas corpus to noncitizens who are being detained ‘in violation of the Constitution or laws or treaties of the United States.'”
Reacting to the situation on social media, one user stated, “Nevada judge frees convicted MS-13 killer despite government warnings about public safety. Harvey Laureano-Rosales was convicted of first-degree murder and has been in ICE custody for over 2 years.”
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Similarly annoyed, another added, “Crazy how much @thedemocrats hate Americans: Judge Richard Boulware will have much blood on his hands from releasing this killer and MS-13 gang banger,” summarizing the situation.
Reacting to a post from the Las Vegas Police Department, one conservative stated, “Yet no statement on why he was released. convict Harvey Laureano Rosales, an Illegal Alien MS-13 gang member convicted of murder and with a final order of removal to avoid an ICE deportation. Why are we letting criminals back into public space.”
“Obama-appointed federal judge Richard F. Boulware II in Nevada just ordered the release of Harvey Laureano-Rosales, a 54-year-old Salvadoran MS-13 killer convicted of first-degree murder, two attempted murders, firearm use in felony, ex-felon gun possession,” another post read.
Continuing, the same user blasted the irritating activist judge, saying, “A judge who frees an MS-13 murderer after decades of violence isn’t upholding the law, he’s subverting it. These left wing activist Judges are enemies of the American people.”
Watch GOP Senators comment on holding rogue judges accountable: