Undocumented man detained after traffic stop amid North Dakota immigration surge
May 14, 2025·Location: New Town, ND
Country of origin: Mexico

Rodrigo Sandoval-Baltazar, 23, was pulled over for an improper lane change in New Town, North Dakota on May 14, 2025, and referred to CBP after providing a Mexican passport. He was taken into federal custody based on two prior removals from Texas in 2024, making him subject to federal reentry charges. A magistrate judge ordered his release on May 23, but prosecutors sought a stay, and a district judge granted the government's motion on June 6, ordering him detained pending trial. His case is among 42 criminal immigration cases filed in the District of North Dakota in the first half of 2025, exceeding the total for any full year in the previous five years.
Sources
More incidents in North Dakota
- Two Bismarck restaurant workers detained by ICE, prompting closure and community protestSep 25, 2026 · Bismarck, ND
- Bismarck-area detentions grow as ICE arrests prompt restaurant closure, public protestSep 21, 2026 · Bismarck, ND
- Afghan former officer detained at immigration check-in wins habeas corpus petition, ordered releasedJun 3, 2026 · West Fargo, ND
- North Dakota ICE detentions spike 75% as emergency petitions flood federal courtsFeb 6, 2026 · Bismarck, ND
- Fargo businesses post warnings as ICE activity surges in regionJan 14, 2026 · Fargo, ND
- Man deported after 19 years in Fargo pleads guilty, loses custody of sonDec 17, 2025 · Fargo, ND