Texas Bakery Owners Arrested for Hiring Undocumented Workers

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Immigration officials arrested two donut shop owners in Los Fresnos, Texas, after discovering eight undocumented immigrants working at their establishment. The proprietors of Abby’s Bakery, who held legal permanent resident status, reportedly confessed to knowingly employing individuals without proper work authorization.

The operation, conducted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents on February 12, led to the apprehension of Leonardo Baez and Nora Alicia Avila-Guel, both Mexican nationals. According to court documents, the owners acknowledged their awareness of the workers’ illegal status and admitted to violating federal law by harboring undocumented immigrants.

Abby's Bakery Los Fresnos, Texas admitting EVERY SINGLE EMPLOYEE was illegal and taken by ICE

“They took all the workers from here”

The business has already been updated on Google to say “Temporarily closed” pic.twitter.com/7PDgU9jlg3

— Wall Street Apes (@WallStreetApes) February 15, 2025

During the investigation, agents interviewed several of the Mexican nationals working at the bakery. At least two workers confirmed they lacked proper documentation to remain in the United States and stated that their employers were fully aware of their immigration status.

The case was documented in a criminal complaint filed with the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. The HSI special agent noted that the arrests resulted from a targeted workplace enforcement action. After reviewing the evidence, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas determined there were sufficient grounds to pursue charges of harboring illegal aliens.

Abby's Bakery in South Texas raided by ICE, 8 illegals arrested, owners charged with aiding and abetting. Send a message! pic.twitter.com/3GndMB1k0a

— ♰ Hollian ♡ 🇺🇸 (@RaeReckonwith) February 22, 2025

This enforcement action aligns with recent statements from key administration officials. Border Czar Tom Homan and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem have emphasized their commitment to targeting those who harbor undocumented immigrants. Noem recently issued a stern warning to individuals residing in the country illegally, stating “We will hunt you down.” Homan extended the warning to elected officials, indicating they could face prosecution if they interfere with deportation efforts.