U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has taken into custody Leandro Romano de Souza, a 27-year-old criminal alien and fugitive from justice, for a felony drug trafficking conviction in Brazil. The arrest occurred on January 27.
"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," stated ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia Hyde. "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."
Romano de Souza entered the United States near Calexico, California, without inspection or admission by an immigration officer in April 2024. He was initially arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol and subsequently released on an order of recognizance.
The Criminal Enforcement Court of the District of Governador Valadares in Minas Gerais, Brazil issued an arrest warrant for Romano de Souza in September 2024 to serve the remainder of his sentence exceeding 14 years in Brazil.
ICE apprehended Romano de Souza during an enhanced operation in Peabody on January 27. He remains in ICE custody awaiting removal proceedings.
The public is encouraged to report crimes or suspicious activities by calling the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
For more information about ICE's mission to enhance public safety, visit X: @EROBoston.
