Blong Yang/Laos/Sexual Assault

On April 30, 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers arrested Blong Yang, a citizen of Laos with a history of serious criminal offenses. Yang, whose prior convictions include carrying a concealed weapon and fourth-degree sexual assault, was taken into custody during a targeted enforcement action. According to ICE, Yang posed a threat due to his repeated criminal behavior and disregard for both immigration law and local public safety statutes.

Yang had previously entered the United States unlawfully and was not encountered by immigration authorities at the time. His criminal convictions, which date back several years, include charges for sexual assault involving non-consensual contact and unlawful possession of a dangerous weapon. Following those convictions, ICE lodged an immigration detainer, but Yang was later released by local authorities without notification to federal officials. This led ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) officers to locate and arrest him in the community.

Yang was taken into custody without incident and transported to a detention facility where he is undergoing processing. He is now subject to removal proceedings before an immigration judge. ICE officials stated that Yang’s prior convictions, combined with his immigration status, made him a priority for enforcement. His detention ensures that he will remain in secure custody while his immigration case proceeds through the legal system.