ICE New Orleans arrested Jose De Leon Padilla, a citizen of El Salvador, who has been convicted of multiple sexual offenses against minors. Padilla’s criminal history includes rape of a child, statutory rape as an authority figure, and aggravated sexual battery of a victim under 13 years old. These convictions stem from a series of offenses committed while he was unlawfully present in the United States.
Authorities revealed that Padilla used his position of authority to exploit vulnerable victims. In one of the most serious charges, Padilla sexually assaulted a child under 13 years old, resulting in an aggravated sexual battery conviction. In another instance, he was found guilty of statutory rape, where the court confirmed he held a position of trust over the victim. These actions led to multiple criminal convictions, and he was sentenced to serve time in prison.
ICE officers took Padilla into custody following his release from local law enforcement. He will remain in ICE detention pending removal proceedings. Due to the severity and nature of his crimes, he has been deemed a priority for removal. Padilla’s case highlights the consequences faced by foreign nationals who commit egregious offenses while in the United States illegally.
