U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Peace Bridge border crossing in Buffalo, New York, have arrested a Sudanese citizen who is a Lawful Permanent Resident of the United States. The individual had an active warrant from Fairfax County, Virginia.
On June 13, CBP officers encountered Ball Salim Ahmed Ball, a 29-year-old male Sudanese citizen, entering the U.S. alone in a personal vehicle. Ball stated he was returning from Canada after visiting friends. During his examination, CBP officers found a match in the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), indicating an active arrest warrant. Ball was taken to secondary inspection for further verification.
During this inspection, officers confirmed Ball's identity and validated the arrest warrant issued by the Fairfax County Police Department for failing to appear at a murder trial related to charges of first-degree murder and strangulation.
Buffalo Port Director Gaetano Cordone remarked on the arrest: “Once again, our enforcement focused CBP officers identified and apprehended a wanted fugitive charged with heinous crimes.” He emphasized the importance of collaboration with law enforcement partners in capturing violent fugitives.
Rose Brophy, Buffalo Director of Field Operations, praised the CBP officers' efforts: “An outstanding job by our Buffalo CBP officers on the arrest of a violent criminal wanted for failing to appear in a case of murder." She expressed hope that this would bring some relief to the victim's family.
After processing and confirming the warrant, Ball was handed over to the Buffalo Police Department as a Fugitive from Justice and is awaiting extradition to Virginia.
It is important to note that criminal charges are allegations; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection describes itself as America's frontline and highlights its role as both the largest law enforcement organization in America and the world's first unified border management agency. With over 65,000 personnel, CBP aims to protect America across various domains while facilitating safe travel and trade.
