Homeland Security Takes Swift Action: Child Predator Convicted of Sexual Abuse Arrested in New York City
On Sept. 19, in a significant development, the Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) New York City announced the arrest of an unlawfully present child predator convicted of sexual abuse. This apprehension marks a crucial step in ensuring the safety of our communities, particularly our most vulnerable residents.
The ERO Long Island Fugitive Operations successfully apprehended a 23-year-old Honduran national outside his residence in Copiague without incident. The individual had been convicted of acting in a manner to injure a child less than 17 years old, specifically engaging in contact with a victim less than 13 years old, while being 21 years or older.
“Unlawfully present noncitizens who violate innocent children will be located, arrested, and removed from the United States,” emphasized ERO New York City Field Office Director Kenneth Genalo. He further stated, “We remain committed to eliminating the threats posed by these criminals to our most vulnerable residents. I am proud of our officers for safely apprehending this child predator, ensuring he can no longer harm children in our communities.”
The Honduran national had entered the United States unlawfully on an unknown date and at an unknown location without inspection, admission, or parole by an immigration official. The encounter with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Houston, Texas, occurred on May 1, 2021, leading to a notice to appear, charging him as inadmissible under the Immigration and Nationality Act. Subsequently, he was transferred to ERO custody. Surprisingly, on May 19, 2021, ERO released the noncitizen on his own recognizance.
However, an immigration judge ordered his removal from the United States to Honduras in absentia on Feb. 13, 2023, highlighting the importance of addressing such cases promptly and effectively.
It’s essential to note that noncitizens placed into removal proceedings receive their legal due process from federal immigration judges in immigration courts. These courts operate independently under the administration of the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), which falls under the U.S. Department of Justice. This separation ensures impartial decisions based on individual case merits. ICE officers subsequently execute the removal decisions issued by federal immigration judges.
As a key operational directorate of ICE, ERO’s mission revolves around protecting the homeland through the arrest and removal of individuals who pose threats to U.S. communities and the integrity of immigration laws. Its primary areas of focus encompass interior enforcement operations, management of detained and non-detained populations, and the repatriation of noncitizens with final removal orders.
ERO’s dedicated workforce comprises over 7,700 law enforcement and non-law enforcement support personnel, strategically located across domestic field offices, overseas postings, and temporary duty assignments along the border.
The public plays a crucial role in preserving public safety. You can report crimes and suspicious activities by calling 866-347-2423 or completing the online tip form.
Stay informed about ERO New York City’s mission to safeguard public safety by following them on X, formerly known as Twitter, @ERONewYork.
In conclusion, the apprehension of the unlawfully present child predator underscores the commitment of Homeland Security to protecting our communities, particularly the safety of our children. Swift and decisive action sends a strong message that such heinous acts will not go unpunished, reaffirming our collective dedication to public safety.
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