McAllen International Airport became the site for an apprehension this past week when a man wanted on several sexual offense charges was detained by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers. The individual in question, a 52-year-old Mexican national and lawful permanent resident of the United States, was wanted for indecent assault and exposure, according to a recent CBP news release.
Authorities were on high alert as the man arrived from Mexico City. A CBP officer spotted the suspect, leading to an immediate security measure. As per CBP protocol, officers brought the man to secondary inspection where biometric verification confirmed his identity. The warrant, active since May of this year, charged him with two counts of indecent assault and one of indecent exposure—the offenses recognized as Class-A misdemeanors in Texas.
"CBP screens all travelers entering the United States. When we encounter persons with outstanding warrants, we are committed to bringing in those individuals to face their criminal charges," stated Carlos Rodriguez, Port Director at the Hidalgo Port of Entry, as per CBP news release.
The local police were promptly involved, with a Hidalgo police officer arriving to assume custody. The man was transported to the Hidalgo County Jail as he awaits extradition to Starr County. Further, an immigration detainer ensures the accused will return to face an immigration court, following the state charges' resolution. It is crucial to note, amidst the allegations, that criminal charges are precisely that—allegations. As the CBP news release reminds us, the man is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
For further information on CBP's commitment to safeguarding our borders and the integral processes involved, interested parties are directed to visit the CBP's website.
