Leader of Colombian criminal organization apprehended in College Park

https://www.baltimoresun.com/2024/08/05/colombian-apprehended-college-park-ice/?clearUserState=true

A leader of a Colombian criminal organization who is wanted for homicide, arms trafficking and aggravated theft charges in that South American nation has been apprehended by officers from Enforcement and Removal Operations Baltimore, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

The 29-year-old from Colombia was apprehended July 31 at his College Park residence by deportation officers from ERO Baltimore’s Fugitive Operations Team. He is a leader of the Las Colinas criminal organization, ICE said, and Colombian authorities are seeking custody of him on charges of alleged homicide, arms trafficking and aggravated theft.

U.S. Border Patrol officials first encountered the Colombian native in September 2023 after he illegally entered the country, ICE said. Officials served him a notice to appear before a Department of Justice immigration judge. He was transferred to the custody of ERO San Diego and later released.

“He attempted to hide from justice in Maryland, and we simply cannot allow that to happen,” said ERO Baltimore acting Deputy Field Office Director Vernon Liggins.