Candelaria Residents Face Immigration Raids Amid Heightened Enforcement

In the early hours of August 19, 2025, a multi-agency raid in Candelaria, Texas, involved armed officers from the Border Patrol, U.S. Army, and Presidio County Sheriff’s Office surrounding a local RV. The incident centered around Juana Alvarez Rodriguez, who was detained due to her lack of proper identification despite living in the area for nine years. The raid reflects increasing immigration enforcement in the region, particularly following heightened security measures initiated by the federal government. Residents are now living in fear of further immigration actions, as exemplified by the recent detention of Rene Peña Santieseban, a long-time resident apprehended while crossing the border back into the U.S.

Key Details: • Candelaria is about 50 miles from Presidio, with a small population and limited access to services. • Juana Alvarez was detained despite having lived in the area for nearly a decade. • Rene Peña was apprehended on November 16, 2025, and his current detention status is unclear. • Residents are urged to stay informed about their rights and local resources for legal assistance.