U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), in collaboration with law enforcement partners, has arrested Richard Alfanso Smith, a 48-year-old Jamaican national residing illegally in the United States. The arrest took place on February 19 during a routine enforcement operation in Basking Ridge, New Jersey. Smith attempted to evade capture but was ultimately detained and is currently held in ICE custody pending removal from the country.
"In a collaborated effort, ICE arrested Richard Alfanso Smith, a citizen of Jamaica who has more than 15 criminal arrests with his convictions," stated John Tsoukaris, Director of ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Newark Field Office. "His extensive track record of arrests, convictions and imprisonments is not compliant with our nation’s immigration laws. We are grateful for the resources our law enforcement partners were able to pool together quickly in real time to ensure the target was apprehended."
Smith's criminal history dates back to May 1996 when he was convicted of assault, burglary, harassment, and disorderly conduct. In June 1999, he received two separate four-year sentences for aggravated assault and resisting arrest as well as for manufacturing, distributing, and possessing heroin with intent to distribute.
Further offenses include an October 8, 2002 conviction for marijuana possession resulting in a 36-day imprisonment sentence. On March 5, 2004, Smith was sentenced to four years for assault and possession of a controlled dangerous substance. Two years later on March 17, he received a six-year sentence for aggravated assault and unlawful possession of a weapon. His most recent conviction occurred on April 25, 2014 for resisting arrest which resulted in a fine.
The public is encouraged to report crimes or suspicious activities by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing an online tip form.
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