NEW YORK, NY — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers in New York City arrested a previously deported El Salvadoran national convicted of sexually abusing a minor during a targeted enforcement operation on Tuesday in Brentwood, Long Island.
Jeremias Benites Vasquez, 39, was taken into custody during a traffic stop on May 14. According to ICE, Benites had illegally reentered the United States after being removed in 2009 following an expedited removal process by U.S. Border Patrol agents near Mission, Texas.
Benites was previously convicted on March 20 of sexually abusing a child under the age of 13. Court records show he was found guilty of “sexual abuse 1st: contact with victim less than 13 where the defendant is 21 or older.”
“This office remains committed to apprehending and removing criminal alien predators who commit horrific acts of violence against our most vulnerable community members,” said Bryan Flanagan, acting Field Office Director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in New York City.
Illegal reentry leads to reinstated removal order
Authorities stated that Benites reentered the U.S. at an unknown time and location without inspection or parole by an immigration officer. He was served with a notice of intent and decision to reinstate his prior removal order.
Benites is currently being held in ICE custody and is awaiting removal to El Salvador.
ICE arrested Jeremias Benites Vasquez, a previously deported sex offender, during a Long Island traffic stop.
