Convicted Fentanyl Dealer Caught in Philadelphia

A convicted fentanyl dealer sobbed as ICE agents arrested her in Philadelphia for illegally re-entering the United States. Authorities apprehended Virginia Basora-Gonzalez, 36, last Wednesday outside her workplace.

Agents received a tip about her whereabouts and tracked her to La Tierra Del Caribe Restaurant, where she worked as a cook. Photos show her visibly shaken, handcuffed, and escorted by federal officers.

Illegally Re-Entering After Deportation

Basora-Gonzalez first faced arrest in Pennsylvania in 2019 for possessing over 40 grams of fentanyl and aiding drug trafficking. She pleaded guilty and received a 12-month sentence with supervised release.

However, instead of completing her sentence, officials deported her to the Dominican Republic in 2020. At some point, she illegally returned, evading detection until a confidential informant tipped off authorities in March 2025.

ICE Confirms Her Identity and Moves In

Law enforcement used the FBI fingerprint database to confirm her identity before carrying out the arrest. The U.S. magistrate judge issued a federal warrant for her on the same day ICE planned to reinstate her removal order.

She now faces additional charges for illegal re-entry, which could result in a long prison sentence before deportation.

ICE Calls Arrest a Victory for Public Safety

ICE officials defended the arrest, emphasizing its importance for public safety.

“This apprehension highlights our commitment to protecting communities from criminal aliens engaged in dangerous activities,” said Brian McShane, acting field office director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in Philadelphia.

He also praised the collaborative efforts of federal law enforcement in ensuring her removal from U.S. streets.

Defense Attorney Fights for Her Release

Basora-Gonzalez’s lawyer argued she should not be held in custody before trial, claiming that illegal re-entry alone does not make her a flight risk.

The prosecution strongly opposed her release, citing her prior conviction and history of violating deportation orders. The government insisted that detaining her was necessary to prevent another escape.

What Happens Next?

Basora-Gonzalez remains in federal custody as she awaits trial. If convicted, she could serve additional prison time before facing deportation once again.

Her case underscores the growing battle against fentanyl trafficking as authorities crack down on offenders who repeatedly defy immigration laws.