WOODBRIDGE, NJ – Federal officers with ICE Newark have arrested a dual citizen of Spain and the Dominican Republic wanted overseas for child sexual assault. Officials said the man, identified as Joel Carmona Roa, was taken into custody on January 11 during a targeted enforcement operation along Woodbridge Center Drive.
Key Points
- ICE Newark arrested Joel Carmona Roa, a dual citizen of Spain and the Dominican Republic
- Roa is wanted in Spain for child sexual assault
- He overstayed his Visa Waiver Program authorization and now faces deportation and extradition
Arrest in Middlesex County operation
According to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Roa entered the United States on July 12, 2024, through the Visa Waiver Program, which allows foreign nationals short-term travel without a visa. After failing to leave when his authorization expired, he was classified as unlawfully present in the country.
Agents from ERO Newark located Roa in Woodbridge, New Jersey, and arrested him without incident. The operation targeted individuals with international warrants or serious criminal histories residing illegally in the U.S.
Wanted for crimes abroad
Spanish law enforcement authorities issued an international warrant for Roa’s arrest after he was accused of sexually assaulting a child. ICE said Roa remains in federal custody while officials coordinate with international partners to facilitate his removal and extradition to Spain, where he faces prosecution.
ICE reaffirms focus on serious offenders
ICE Newark officials said their ongoing enforcement actions prioritize fugitives and individuals with violent or sexual crime allegations. “Our mission is to protect public safety and ensure foreign nationals who commit serious crimes face justice,” an agency representative said.
The agency added that cases like Roa’s demonstrate the importance of cooperation between U.S. and foreign governments in pursuing transnational offenders.
Tags: ICE Newark, ICE, child sexual assault