A federal judge has approved the DOJ’s request to drop gun charges against alleged MS-13 leader Henrry Villatoro Santos, likely clearing the way for deportation. The move reflects a shift toward quicker, cost-effective enforcement over lengthy trials.
Key Facts: DOJ Drops Charges Against MS-13 Leader
- Judge William E. Fitzpatrick approved the DOJ’s motion to drop gun charges against Henrry Villatoro Santos on April 15, 2025.
- Villatoro Santos, arrested on March 27 in Virginia, is accused of being a top MS-13 leader on the East Coast.
- Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel led the high-profile announcement of his arrest.
- The DOJ seeks to deport Villatoro Santos instead of prosecuting him in federal court.
- His attorney claims the decision came from high-ranking officials and warns of deportation without due process.
The Rest of the Story: Why the DOJ Dropped the Gun Charges
Magistrate Judge Fitzpatrick ruled in favor of the DOJ’s motion to dismiss illegal firearm charges against Henrry Villatoro Santos, an alleged East Coast MS-13 leader.
The judge allowed a brief delay until Friday to let the defense consider appeals.
The DOJ filed the motion on April 9, not long after Santos’ March 27 arrest.
The case stems from his alleged role in MS-13 and possession of an illegal firearm, but prosecutors have chosen to prioritize removal over prosecution.
Defense attorney Muhammad Elsayed raised concerns about Santos being deported without proper hearings.
He pointed to a recent case in Maryland, where another Salvadoran was mistakenly deported.
Judge Fitzpatrick declined to probe internal DOJ decisions but acknowledged the defense might seek further review through the Department of Homeland Security.
REPORT: Prosecutors say illegal Henrry Josue Villatoro Santos, 24, is one of three U.S. leaders of the MS-13 gang
The FBI recovered multiple firearms, ammo, and silencers from his mother’s house
Santos was found hiding in an alcove near the garage
SWAT teams used stun grenades… pic.twitter.com/hr3AJZIa3H
— Unlimited L's (@unlimited_ls) April 1, 2025
Commentary: Deportation Over Prosecution Makes Fiscal and Legal Sense
From a practical standpoint, the DOJ’s decision to pursue deportation instead of a full trial is both lawful and fiscally responsible.
This man is accused of leading one of the most violent gangs in the Western Hemisphere and is in the country illegally.
Why should American taxpayers foot the bill for his prosecution and incarceration?
A federal trial followed by years in a U.S. prison could cost millions.
That money would be better spent securing our communities, funding border enforcement, or supporting victims of MS-13 violence.
By removing him quickly, the government is taking decisive action without bogging down the system in red tape.
Critics might argue that due process is at risk, but deportation is a lawful remedy when someone is in the U.S. illegally.
Final Summary: DOJ Opts for Swift Deportation of MS-13 Leader
The DOJ’s move to drop charges against MS-13 figure Henrry Villatoro Santos is a strategic decision to save resources and eliminate threats efficiently.
Judge Fitzpatrick’s approval clears the way for deportation proceedings.
Though the defense raised objections, the reality remains: Santos is accused of dangerous affiliations and is in the U.S. illegally.
Removing him may not only be easier but far more effective in protecting the public.
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