Susan C. Dunbar Acting Executive Associate Director, Management and Administration | U.S. Immigration And Customs Enforcement
Susan C. Dunbar Acting Executive Associate Director, Management and Administration | U.S. Immigration And Customs Enforcement
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has deported Cecilio Lopez Vasquez, a 40-year-old Guatemalan national, to his home country where he faces charges of rape. Lopez was removed from the United States on March 17.
Lopez initially entered the U.S. illegally at an unspecified time and place. He was first arrested by ICE on September 14, 2006, and subsequently deported to Guatemala on November 30, 2006, as ordered by an immigration judge. However, he re-entered the U.S. illegally again at an unknown date and location.
His most recent arrest occurred on December 13, 2024, by the Missouri Highway Patrol for driving under the influence (DUI). ICE Chicago took him into custody on February 13 outside the St. Clair County Courthouse in Osceola, Missouri. During his detention, authorities discovered that Lopez was wanted for rape in Huehuetenango, Guatemala.
The deportation process involved coordination with the Security Alliance for Fugitive Enforcement task force in Guatemala. On March 17, Lopez was handed over to Guatemalan authorities.
“This removal shows that our officers are critical in providing justice for victims on an international scale,” stated Sam Olson, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Chicago Field Office Director. “Criminal aliens will not be allowed to use our nation as a means to evade the law in their home country.”
The public is encouraged to report crimes or suspicious activities by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing an online tip form.
For more information about ICE's efforts to enhance public safety, follow them on X at @EROChicago.
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