Tou Thao/Laos/Sexual Assault

Tou Thao, a Laos national found to be in the country illegally, was arrested in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on charges of sexual assault.

Sexual assault charges are among the most serious in the criminal justice system, carrying potential for lengthy sentences and lifetime sex offender registration requirements. For illegal aliens, the case triggers two simultaneous legal processes — a criminal prosecution by local or state authorities, and a federal immigration removal proceeding on a separate timeline. Thao faces consequences on two independent legal fronts simultaneously.

Thao remains in ICE custody pending a hearing before a federal immigration judge. No trial date on the criminal charges has been announced publicly. If the immigration court orders removal, Thao would be returned to Laos.