U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Chicago has deported Cecilio Lopez Vasquez, a 40-year-old Guatemalan national, back to Guatemala on March 17. Lopez is wanted in his home country for rape.
Lopez's initial illegal entry into the United States occurred at an unspecified date and location. He was first apprehended by ICE on September 14, 2006, and subsequently deported to Guatemala following an immigration judge's order on November 30, 2006. However, Lopez re-entered the U.S. illegally at another unknown time and place. He was arrested by the Missouri Highway Patrol for driving under the influence (DUI) on December 13, 2024.
ICE Chicago took Lopez into custody again on February 13 outside the St. Clair County Courthouse in Osceola, Missouri. During his detention by ICE, authorities discovered that he was wanted for rape in Huehuetenango, Guatemala. On March 17, Lopez was handed over to Guatemalan authorities with coordination from the Security Alliance for Fugitive Enforcement taskforce based in Guatemala.
“This removal shows that our officers are critical in providing justice for victims on an international scale,” stated Sam Olson, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Chicago Field Office Director. “Criminal aliens will not be allowed to use our nation as a means to evade the law in their home country.”
The public is encouraged to report crimes or suspicious activities by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or submitting information through an online tip form.
Further details about ICE’s mission can be found on their social media platform X at @EROChicago.
