A tip from the Department of Homeland Security’s Cyber Crimes Center (DHS C3) led to the arrest of Rafael Romeiro Rodriguez on May 29. Rodriguez, a Colombian national and convicted child sex offender, was apprehended while attempting international travel.
The DHS C3, under U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI), focuses on preventing crimes such as child sex tourism by alerting destination countries about traveling convicted predators and supporting domestic enforcement actions.
Rodriguez was previously convicted in 2014 for indecent assault and battery on a child under 14 years old. Deputy Assistant Director for the DHS Cyber Crimes Center Mike Prado stated, “Thanks to the targeted intelligence work of the Cyber Crimes Center, a convicted child sex offender will no longer pose a threat to the community.” He emphasized that proactive targeting leads to arrests that enhance public safety.
ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston officers, supported by ICE HSI, the FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, arrested Rodriguez in Boston without incident. Patricia H. Hyde, acting Field Office Director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston said, “This arrest is a direct result of the critical coordination between ERO Boston, the DHS Cybercrimes Center, and our federal and law enforcement partners.”
Rodriguez remains in ICE custody awaiting removal proceedings.
Authorities urge early intervention in cases involving children at risk. For immediate danger situations or abductions, local law enforcement or 911 should be contacted. Suspected online exploitation can be reported through the Know2Protect Tipline or National Center for Missing & Exploited Children's CyberTipline.
Public education efforts continue with Project iGuardian presentations available for schools and community groups. For scheduling an interview regarding this case or related matters contact Public Affairs Officer Tanya Roman.
