[Prokopton]

Nope. IIRC, he’s no more a “criminal” for illegally entering the US than you or I would be for speeding. He broke a “regulation” rather than a “law” at least for a first offense. I think it only becomes “criminal” after repeat offenses. A legal beagle might be able to provide more info.

Well, you don't recall correctly. Entering the United States without permission and or outside a federally approved location is against federal statute. The first offense is punishable by up to 6 months imprisonment. Subsequent convictions are punishable by up to two years imprisonment.

The commission of any offense that is punishable by confinement is a crime. Speeding is usually not punishable by confinement and is therefore not a crime. Entering the United States without permission is a crime and anyone who does it is, by definition, a criminal.

[Little Ray]

That’s nice to know. Thank you!