DHS Urges California to Transfer Suspected Murderer to Federal Authorities

Suspect Overview

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has urged California to surrender Marcos Iriarte-Valdez, a Venezuelan national, to federal custody. He is charged with the fatal stabbing of Todd Stewart, a 68-year-old retiree, in Martinez, California.

Release and Charges

A California judge released Iriarte-Valdez, previously held on burglary charges, just a day before the alleged murder. Prosecutors had charged him with burglary in Contra Costa County, but the court ordered his release. DHS placed an immigration detainer on him on September 23, 2025. His charges include murder, burglary, and violating a protective order.

His arrest record includes multiple charges like inflicting corporal injury on a spouse and trespassing. DHS calls for Governor Gavin Newsom’s cooperation to hand over Iriarte-Valdez, highlighting the public safety risks of sanctuary policies.

“Sanctuary politicians must stop putting politics above public safety,” DHS said.

Incident Details

Iriarte-Valdez allegedly murdered Todd Stewart during an attempted burglary. He reportedly encountered Stewart in the garage, tried to escape, and then fatally stabbed him. This offense happened while Iriarte-Valdez was on pretrial release for prior burglary charges.

Contra Costa prosecutors charged him earlier in connection with burglaries in occupied homes. The day after his court-ordered release, Stewart was killed. Affected residents express disbelief at the release decision.

DHS Stance

DHS criticizes the lack of cooperation from sanctuary cities, which they argue leads to increased crime. A spokesperson emphasized the importance of using arrest detainers to safely remove criminal aliens. They noted that cities collaborating with ICE rank among the safest in the U.S.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin continues efforts to target dangerous illegal immigrants. A former burglary victim expressed shock over Iriarte-Valdez’s release, recounting a close encounter when the suspect fled upon seeing a reflection.

Legal Proceedings

Iriarte-Valdez currently remains in custody without bail. His court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday. Authorities and Fox News did not receive comments from Governor Gavin Newsom on the matter.