U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Port of Champlain have arrested a Haitian citizen who was wanted on a felony warrant from Virginia. The arrest took place on July 31 after Christalin Morelus, a 21-year-old male, was refused entry into Canada and encountered by CBP during his primary inspection.
The National Crime Information Center alerted officers that Morelus was sought in Virginia for felony aggravated assault-strangulation. Officers took him into custody and conducted further investigation in the secondary examination area, where they confirmed his identity and the existence of an active warrant issued by the Fairfax County Police Department.
“Thanks to the diligence and enforcement focus of our officers, we were able to identify and apprehend an individual wanted for a serious crime,” said Champlain Port Director Steve Bronson. “This arrest underscores the critical role that CBP plays in protecting our communities and ensuring that those who pose a threat to public safety are brought to justice.”
After processing, Morelus was turned over to New York State Police as a fugitive from justice. He is currently being held while awaiting extradition.
Authorities emphasized that criminal charges are allegations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
CBP is recognized as America's largest law enforcement organization with more than 65,000 employees responsible for border management across land, air, and sea. The agency focuses on facilitating lawful travel and trade while enhancing national security through various measures.
