DHS: Undocumented immigrants face charges in DUI crash that led to deaths of Illinois couple
An Illinois couple tragically lost their lives in a car crash last week involving a suspected drunk driver who is in the U.S. illegally. The crash, which occurred in Westfield, resulted in the death of Coles County Board Member Michael Clayton and his wife, Gail. Authorities reported that the driver, 34-year-old Edwin Pacheco-Meza from Honduras, was driving under the influence. The vehicle also contained marijuana, ammunition, an extended magazine, and an open container. Pacheco-Meza was arrested, along with his passenger, 18-year-old Juan Morales-Martinez from Guatemala. Charges were brought against Pacheco-Meza for aggravated driving under the influence and reckless homicide. Immigration detainers were placed on both men at the Clark County Jail, although the request was not honored due to Illinois' sanctuary policies. Federal agents later arrested Morales-Martinez outside the jail on drug possession and weapons offense charges. Both individuals had entered the U.S. illegally and authorities intend to pursue their removal from the country. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin condemned the incident and emphasized the government's commitment to identifying and removing criminal illegal immigrants. Pacheco-Meza was denied pre-trial release and is set to appear in court on Nov. 17.
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