Convicted sex offender arrested by Border Patrol

The U.S. Border Patrol agents in El Centro Sector arrested a previously deported sex offender on Wednesday morning.

According to agents, Bernardino Sanchez Pera, a 30-year-old Mexican national, was suspected of entering the United States approximately 17 miles west of the Calexico West Port of Entry when agents responded to the area and arrested the man. After his arrest, agents say Sanchez-Pera was transported to the El Centro station for immigration and screening.

Sanchez-Pera had a conviction for performing sex with a minor on September 12, 2010, in Skagit, Washington. Agents say he served 15 months in jail and was previously removed from the United States in 2011, agents say.

Agents said Sanchez is being held in federal custody pending further criminal prosecution.