In a startling breach of security, Capitol Police apprehended a man armed with a machete, butcher knife, and brick on the Capitol grounds last week. The incident has raised serious concerns about the effectiveness of U.S. immigration policies and border security.
The individual in question, a 23-year-old Venezuelan national named Jose Leonardo Marquez, was observed by officers exhibiting suspicious behavior. His actions prompted an approach by a Capitol Police officer, which led to the discovery of the concealed weapons. Marquez was subsequently arrested and charged with carrying a dangerous weapon and possession of a prohibited weapon.
Illegal Arrested and Released.
Is it normal practice for illegals to carry machetes, knives and bricks?
“Jose Leonardo Marquez-Marquez, a 23-year-old illegal alien from Venezuela, was arrested by Capitol Police on Dec. 26, 2023 and carrying a machete, a knife, and a brick.” pic.twitter.com/ci0oHzEHFO
— FFT1776™ (@FFT1776) January 3, 2024
This arrest is particularly alarming as it has been revealed that Marquez is an illegal immigrant who had previously been detained near El Paso, Texas, by Border Patrol agents in August 2022. Despite his arrest, he was released the following day due to insufficient detention capacity, a decision that has now come under scrutiny.
Marquez’s presence on Capitol grounds with such weapons poses questions about the intentions behind his actions. While there is currently no evidence suggesting he was targeting members of Congress, the potential for harm cannot be ignored. The quick response by Capitol Police prevented what could have been a tragic event.
BREAKING REPORT: Individual Detained at Capitol Carrying Machete, Butcher Knife, and Brick in Pants identified as an UNDOCUMENTED IMMIGRANT Previously Apprehended and Released Near Border in 2022 by BIDEN'S CBP..
Marquez entered the United States illegally on an unspecified date… pic.twitter.com/Oc3v9x6W85
— Chuck Callesto (@ChuckCallesto) January 3, 2024
The case of Marquez underscores a broader issue of border security and the handling of illegal immigrants once they are inside the United States. The fact that an individual who was known to have entered the country unlawfully was able to reach the heart of the nation’s capital undetected is a glaring red flag.
Further complicating matters, Marquez had been issued a notice to appear before an immigration judge in October 2023 but remained at large until his December arrest.
This gap in enforcement has sparked debate over the current administration’s immigration policies and their implications for national security.
As Marquez faces removal proceedings, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for robust border control and immigration enforcement. It is imperative that measures are taken to ensure that those entering the country do so legally and that those who pose a threat are not allowed to slip through the cracks of the system.
