U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Brownsville Port of Entry recently detained a fugitive with an outstanding felony warrant for indecency with a child by contact. The arrest took place at the Veterans International Bridge.
"Apprehensions of persons wanted for alleged sexual crimes involving children are among the most heinous that we encounter at Brownsville Port of Entry," stated Tater Ortiz, Port Director at Brownsville Port of Entry. "Apprehensions like these help keep our border communities safe and underscore the importance and necessity of our border security mission."
On May 14, CBP officers referred Ibis Gutierrez, a 40-year-old Mexican citizen and lawful permanent U.S. resident, for secondary inspection. During this process, biometric verification and federal law enforcement databases confirmed his identity and revealed he was wanted by the Brownsville Police Department.
Gutierrez was subsequently handed over to the custody of the Brownsville Police Department.
The National Crime Information Center (NCIC) plays a key role in sharing information among law enforcement agencies about outstanding warrants for various offenses. Through NCIC data, CBP officers have previously arrested individuals wanted for serious crimes such as homicide, money laundering, robbery, narcotics distribution, and military desertion. It is important to note that criminal charges are allegations; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
For updates on breaking news and current events from CBP's Laredo Field Office and U.S. Customs and Border Protection South Texas, follow their social media accounts @DFOLaredo and @CBPSouthTexas respectively.
CBP is America's frontline agency tasked with safeguarding the nation's borders while facilitating lawful travel and trade to ensure economic prosperity.
