Major Theft and Organized Crime

Immigration officials allowed Flores, a lawful permanent resident who had been out on bail in the indictment over a $100 million jewelry heist, to self‑deport after an immigration hearing in which he requested voluntary departure to Chile (the judge denied that request but issued a final removal order), and he was removed to Ecuador following his transfer to ICE custody in September. Prosecutors — who say they were unaware of any immigration detainer — are angered and want the case dismissed without prejudice so they can seek his return, while defense lawyers argue the deportation violated criminal‑procedure rights and seek dismissal with prejudice; a former federal prosecutor called allowing self‑deportation in such a high‑value case “highly unusual,” noting immigration officials typically notify prosecutors.