WASHINGTON, DC – Federal immigration authorities have arrested a Mexican national in Chicago who has been convicted of child abduction and repeatedly entered the United States illegally, officials said.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement confirmed the Nov. 16 arrest of 40-year-old Leonardo Ignot-Osto, who has illegally crossed the border at least five times since 2005.
Authorities said Ignot-Osto was convicted in Illinois of abducting and luring a child under 17, as well as retail theft.
ICE says man repeatedly reentered U.S. after prior removals
According to ICE, U.S. Border Patrol encountered Ignot-Osto four times in 2005, after which he voluntarily returned to Mexico each time. He later reentered the country before committing his first crime in the U.S.
Illinois state records show he was charged on April 15 with abduction, kidnapping, and two counts of child enticement for indecent purposes. On Sept. 18, he was convicted of child abduction and sentenced to one year in prison.
ICE officials criticized Chicago’s sanctuary policies, saying they prevented federal agents from taking custody of Ignot-Osto earlier.
“This is who ICE is arresting in Chicago, a criminal alien that repeatedly entered the U.S. illegally and went on to commit heinous crimes against a child,” said ICE Assistant Director for Public Affairs Emily Covington.
Authorities said Ignot-Osto remains in ICE custody pending removal proceedings.
A Mexican national convicted of child abduction has been arrested by ICE in Chicago after repeatedly entering the U.S. illegally.