U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) apprehended a Brazilian fugitive wanted for drug trafficking in his home country.
Leandro Romano de Souza, 27, was arrested in Peabody, Massachusetts, on January 27, 2025, during an enhanced operation conducted by ICE.
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“The arrest of this criminal alien, who illegally entered the U.S. in an attempt to evade justice, underscores our relentless commitment to identifying and apprehending individuals who exploit our borders to escape accountability,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia Hyde.
Romano de Souza illegally entered the United States in April 2024 near Calexico, California, and was subsequently released on an order of recognizance. However, authorities in Brazil issued an arrest warrant for him in September 2024 to serve the remainder of a 14-year sentence for a felony drug trafficking conviction.
Following his arrest in Massachusetts, Romano de Souza remains in ICE custody pending removal proceedings. This case highlights ICE’s dedication to collaborating with international law enforcement partners to apprehend fugitives who seek refuge in the United States.
READ: ICE Apprehends Illegal Alien In Massachusetts Facing Rape, Child Crime Charges
“We remain dedicated to working closely with our international law enforcement partners to ensure that foreign fugitives seeking refuge in our communities are swiftly located and removed from our community,” added Hyde.
ICE encourages the public to report any suspicious activity or crimes by contacting the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423).
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