A Guatemalan national has been indicted in Suffolk County, New York, on multiple felony charges, including predatory sexual assault against a child, after authorities allege he raped a 5-year-old girl, according to the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office and the Department of Homeland Security.
The case involves coordination between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities and highlights how criminal and immigration proceedings can intersect when suspects face both local charges and potential removal from the United States.
Carlos Aguilar Reynoso, 27, was arrested on February 2, 2026, after the child’s mother brought her to a hospital, where medical personnel determined the child had sustained internal injuries requiring specialized care. According to prosecutors, the child indicated that Aguilar Reynoso assaulted her while he was babysitting.
Investigators conducted a sexual assault forensic examination and later obtained DNA evidence, which prosecutors said matched Aguilar Reynoso. Authorities said the child underwent surgery to treat her injuries at a specialized children’s hospital in New York City.
At the time of the initial arrest, Aguilar Reynoso was charged with endangering the welfare of a child while forensic testing was ongoing. Prosecutors said that charge is not eligible for bail under New York law, meaning he could not be held in custody based on that charge alone.
According to the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, officials coordinated with Immigration and Customs Enforcement to ensure Aguilar Reynoso remained in custody during the investigation. He was taken into federal custody on February 2 and later issued a final order of removal by an immigration judge on March 16.
Federal authorities said Aguilar Reynoso entered the United States at an unknown place and time. Immigration and Customs Enforcement later transferred him back to local authorities on March 16 to face prosecution in Suffolk County.
On March 23, a grand jury indicted Aguilar Reynoso on charges including predatory sexual assault against a child, rape in the first degree, sexual abuse in the first degree, endangering the welfare of a child, and resisting arrest. A judge ordered him held without bail pending trial. He is scheduled to return to court on April 27.
“While local law enforcement processed DNA evidence and built their case, they contacted ICE to arrest this individual so he would not be released into the community,” Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis said.
Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney said prosecutors worked to navigate state legal requirements while ensuring the defendant remained in custody during the investigation and charging process.
The Buffalo Sector of U.S. Customs and Border Protection was not involved in this case; however, federal immigration enforcement officials said coordination between local and federal agencies can play a role in cases involving individuals subject to both criminal prosecution and immigration proceedings.
Aguilar Reynoso faces up to 25 years to life in prison if convicted on the most serious charge, according to prosecutors.
