NOTE: VIDEO AT THE END OF THE ARTICLE.
In a stunning development that has shaken federal immigration enforcement circles, a former U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer and three bail bondsmen have been indicted for allegedly orchestrating a bribery scheme to manipulate the immigration detainer process.
According to a July 2, 2025 press release from the U.S. Department of Justice, Jose Angel Muniz, 51, of Texas, who served in ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) division, was arrested and charged alongside three other individuals: Leopoldo Perrault Benitez, Anthony Benitez, and Isaac Sierra. Prosecutors allege the men conspired to pay Muniz in exchange for lifting immigration detainers on individuals in ICE custody, allowing them to be released from detention rather than deported.
The scheme, which reportedly took place between April 2023 and March 2024, involved bribes paid to Muniz by bondsmen working for or associated with A Way Out Bail Bonds and International Bonding Company. Leopoldo Benitez, the owner of A Way Out Bail Bonds, allegedly led the conspiracy with assistance from his son, Andrew Benitez, and co-defendant Isaac Sierra.
The indictment claims that Muniz used his position within ICE to falsify internal records and remove holds on non-citizen detainees in exchange for cash payments. These actions violated federal immigration enforcement protocols and undermined the integrity of the detention and removal system.
U.S. Attorney Nicholas Ganjei for the Southern District of Texas condemned the conduct, stating, “The Southern District of Texas takes allegations of corruption by federal officers extremely seriously—especially those who are charged with protecting our national security and public safety. There is zero tolerance for bribery or manipulation of our immigration system.”
All four defendants were taken into federal custody and appeared in court in Houston, where they were ordered to remain detained pending further legal proceedings. If convicted, each individual faces a maximum sentence of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of either $250,000 or the total value of the bribes exchanged—whichever is greater.
The case is being jointly investigated by the FBI and the ICE Office of Professional Responsibility. Officials emphasized that the indictment is not a finding of guilt, but a formal accusation. All four men are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty through the judicial process.
This incident comes at a time when ICE and other federal immigration agencies are facing increased public scrutiny and political criticism. A recent Department of Homeland Security report noted a dramatic rise in verbal and physical attacks against ICE officers, driven in part by public distrust and political rhetoric.
Officials warn that misconduct such as this only fuels broader skepticism and undermines public confidence in federal law enforcement. The case is expected to proceed to trial in the coming months.
PLAY:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDM5LHQFGjg
Sarah Mitchell is a bestselling novelist recognized for her insightful and emotionally resonant stories that explore the complexities of human relationships. Originally from Denver, Colorado, Sarah grew up in a family of teachers who nurtured her curiosity and love for storytelling. She studied psychology at Stanford University, where she became fascinated by the intricacies of human behavior—an interest that would later shape her writing career. Sarah’s novels are praised for their nuanced characters, intricate plots, and ability to capture the subtle tensions that define love, friendship, and family ties. Her breakthrough novel, The Spaces Between Us, became an instant bestseller, lauded for its honest portrayal of strained family relationships and the fragile bonds that hold people together. Since then, she has published several works that continue to captivate audiences around the world. Outside of her writing career, Sarah is passionate about mental health advocacy and often partners with organizations to promote awareness and support for those struggling with emotional well-being. Her personal life is quieter—she enjoys hiking in the Colorado mountains, practicing yoga, and spending time with close friends. With each new book, Sarah Mitchell cements her reputation as a writer who illuminates the beauty and struggles of human connection.
