Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs | https://www.dhs.gov/
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has issued an arrest detainer for Leyter Jeferson Arauz-Medina, a Nicaraguan national, who is accused of raping a 54-year-old woman in Chicago on August 31. According to ICE, Arauz-Medina entered the United States near Eagle Pass, Texas, on September 17, 2024, and was released into the country by federal authorities.
Arauz-Medina faces charges including rape, sexual assault, assault, and drug possession. Authorities allege that he attacked the victim by dragging her across the street by her hair, forcing her into an alleyway, and continuing the assault until a passing motorist intervened. The victim sought help at a nearby food truck after escaping.
ICE explained that an arrest detainer is a request for local law enforcement to notify ICE before releasing an individual from custody. However, ICE noted that Chicago’s status as a sanctuary city means such requests are rarely honored.
Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin commented: “A real-life nightmare: This criminal, who JB Pritzker continues to protect, VICIOUSLY ATTACKED an innocent woman who was walking the streets of Chicago. This monster was released into our country by the Biden Administration. Governor Pritzker and his sanctuary policies protect criminal illegal alien rapists over American citizens. We will do everything in our power to ensure this wicked criminal NEVER walks our streets again.”
An immigration judge ordered Arauz-Medina removed from the United States on July 17, 2025.
ICE stated that its officers will continue their work to remove violent offenders despite political challenges and sanctuary policies. The agency said these efforts would continue under President Trump and Secretary Noem.
