Federal officials say a detainer has been lodged as local authorities hold suspect without bail.
Lakewood, NJ – Federal immigration officials are urging Ocean County authorities not to release a man arrested in Lakewood who is facing multiple charges involving the alleged sexual assault of a minor. The individual, identified as Gerardo Garcia Gonzalez, was taken into custody March 2 during an operation involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the U.S. Marshals Service.
Now, ICE fears Garcia Gonzalez could be released under New Jersey’s Bail Reform ACT after a pretrial hearing. The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office has not issued a statment or release regarding the heinous act allegedly committed by Garcia Gonzalez.
“Under President Trump, if you break the law, you will face the consequences. Criminal illegal aliens are not welcome in the U.S,” the Department of Homeland Security warned other migrants who break the law.
Following his arrest, Garcia Gonzalez was transferred to the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, where he remains held on charges including sexual assault by force or coercion, sexual assault involving a victim between 13 and 15 years old, criminal sexual contact, and endangering the welfare of a child.
“ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Newark, in coordination with the U.S. Marshals Service, arrested Gerardo Garcia Gonzalez, a criminal alien from Mexico, on a criminal warrant in Lakewood, New Jersey March 2. Following his arrest, Garcia Gonzalez was turned over to the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office pursuant to a warrant issued for charges including sexual assault—force/coercion, sexual assault—victim 13-15 years old, criminal sexual contact, and endangering—sexual conduct with a minor,” DHS said to Shore News Network today.
Key Points
- ICE and U.S. Marshals arrested suspect in Lakewood on March 2
- Ocean County jail records show multiple sex offense charges involving a minor
- Federal authorities issued detainer seeking transfer to immigration custody
Federal detainer filed as case moves forward
Immigration and Customs Enforcement has lodged a detainer requesting that Garcia Gonzalez be transferred to federal custody upon release from local detention. Officials say the move is intended to ensure he remains in custody as immigration proceedings begin.
“ICE has lodged a detainer requesting that Garcia be transferred to ICE custody to initiate removal proceedings,” a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said. “Collaboration with local authorities is critical to prevent the release of individuals charged with serious crimes into the community.”
Court records show no bail status
Jail records from Ocean County indicate Garcia Gonzalez is being held without bail following his arrest. The charges listed include second-degree sexual assault and related offenses under New Jersey law.
