U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents apprehended 38-year-old Colombian national Julio Cesar Henao-Cordoba in State College last Friday. Henao-Cordoba was wanted in Panama for the aggravated rape of a child, a charge that highlights the severity of the crimes he is accused of committing, as confirmed in an ICE news release.
ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Philadelphia acting Field Office Director Brian McShane emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "The arrest of Julio Cesar Henao-Cordoba demonstrates ICE's dedication to protecting the most vulnerable members of our communities — our children." McShane emphasized ICE's commitment to its mission of apprehending individuals accused of serious crimes, ensuring accountability and the safety of neighborhoods for all, as per ICE.
An arrest warrant issued by Panamanian authorities on Sept. 2, 2020, was outstanding for Henao's capture concerning the rape; he had previously been arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol on May 26, 2022, as he entered the United States without proper admission near Eagle Pass, Texas. ICE enrolled Henao in the alternatives to detention program following his transfer the next day, but ultimately terminated his participation as his residence fell outside the program's jurisdictional boundaries, and subsequently issued him a notice to appear, charging him with inadmissibility.
Following his recent arrest, Henao was held at the Clinton County Correctional Facility in McElhattan, Pennsylvania. ICE continues to play a key role in community safety and encourages the public to report crimes or suspicious activities. To support this, ICE has established a tip line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) and an online tip form, aiming to involve the community in efforts to address and prevent serious offenses.
To learn more about ICE's role and initiatives in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and West Virginia, the public can visit the informational page of their Philadelphia office, as the agency continues to provide transparency about its efforts to enhance public safety in these communities.
