SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania has announced that Luis de Jesus Pichardo, a 57-year-old native and citizen of the Dominican Republic residing in Carbon County, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury. He faces charges related to reentry after being previously removed from the United States.
Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus stated that the indictment alleges Pichardo was found in the United States on or about July 16, 2025, without authorization for readmission. Pichardo had been removed from the country in both 1996 and 2000.
The investigation was conducted by the United States Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Assistant United States Attorney Luisa Berti is handling the prosecution.
The case falls under “Take Back America,” an initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration and transnational criminal organizations. This operation aligns with efforts from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
If convicted, Pichardo could face up to 20 years in prison, followed by supervised release, and a fine. Sentencing would be determined by a judge based on federal statutes and guidelines.
It is important to note that indictments are merely allegations. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
