Federal immigration authorities in New England have arrested a registered sex offender from Portugal who was previously convicted of raping a child and other crimes against minors.
Dennis Costa, a lawful permanent resident who immigrated to the United States from Portugal in 1969, was taken into custody by special agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Costa’s criminal record includes a 1991 conviction for child sex abuse offenses, for which he was sentenced to 10 years in prison.
Last week, @HSINewEngland arrested a registered sex offender convicted in 1991 for rape & abuse of a child and indecent assault & battery on a child under the age of 14.
Dennis Costa, a native of Portugal, is now in ICE custody pending an appearance before an immigration judge. pic.twitter.com/7l8qquG8yx
— HSI New England (@HSINewEngland) August 6, 2025
ICE officials said Costa’s prior convictions involved sexual offenses against minors, including rape of a child, and noted that he is a registered sex offender. The agency did not provide additional details about the victims in order to protect their identities.
According to ICE, Costa’s arrest is part of ongoing enforcement efforts targeting noncitizens with serious criminal histories who pose a threat to public safety. These operations often focus on individuals who have been convicted of violent crimes, sexual offenses, or other felonies, and who are subject to removal under federal immigration law.
Costa will remain in ICE custody pending removal proceedings before a federal immigration judge. If ordered removed, he will be deported to Portugal.
“Individuals who commit crimes against children will be prioritized for enforcement and removal,” ICE officials stated. “Our officers are committed to using every legal tool available to protect communities from those who seek to harm the most vulnerable.”
Federal law allows the deportation of lawful permanent residents who are convicted of certain aggravated felonies, including sexual abuse of a minor. While lawful permanent residents may live and work in the United States indefinitely, they are still subject to removal if they commit crimes that meet federal deportation criteria.
ICE urged the public to report tips about criminal aliens through its online tip form or by contacting the agency’s tip line.
Costa’s case will be reviewed by the Executive Office for Immigration Review, which will determine whether he will be deported following the completion of removal proceedings.
