Fernando Alves-Rocha/Brazil/Theft

Fernando Alves-Rocha, a 45-year-old citizen of Brazil, was arrested by ICE officers with Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Seattle in Monroe, Washington. Alves-Rocha originally entered the United States in 2018 on a tourist visa but failed to depart when authorized, rendering him an illegal alien. During his time in the U.S., he remained unlawfully present and eventually came to the attention of ICE due to his criminal background.

Authorities in Brazil have issued a warrant for Alves-Rocha’s arrest in connection with a theft offense. ICE officers coordinated with international law enforcement and determined that Alves-Rocha posed a flight risk and should be detained pending removal proceedings. He is currently in ICE custody and will remain so as his case proceeds through the immigration court system.

In addition to overstaying his visa, the outstanding theft charge in Brazil contributed to the decision to take Alves-Rocha into custody. ICE has confirmed that he will face removal from the United States and could eventually be transferred to Brazilian authorities to address his pending criminal matter abroad.