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In a recent development in South Carolina, federal immigration authorities have placed a detainer on a Mexican national facing accusations of sexually assaulting a minor. The case came to light after the young victim was discovered giving birth in a hospital parking lot.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has identified the suspect as Luis Armando Argueta Montejo. He is accused of engaging in sexual activities with a female minor, whose age is estimated to be between 11 and 14 years old.
The arrest of Montejo occurred shortly after the minor delivered a child in the parking lot of Oconee Memorial Hospital. This incident prompted a swift investigation by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
According to evidence gathered by the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office, Montejo allegedly had sexual relations with the victim. This evidence has been instrumental in the ongoing investigation, DHS officials reported.
Federal authorities have underscored the seriousness of the allegations against Montejo and are actively collaborating with local law enforcement to ensure justice in this troubling case.
The 43-year-old was charged with incest and three counts of criminal sexual conduct with a child, DHS said.
“This sicko should NEVER have been in our country to prey on children in the first place,” Acting Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis said in a statement. “He now faces charges for incest and multiple child sex crimes.”
Montejo told ICE he first entered the U.S. in 2006 and does not have a prior criminal record, according to officials.
Authorities said a suspect in a South Carolina case involving a minor is facing federal immigration action. (Oconee County Sheriff’s Office/Department of Homeland Security)
ICE lodged a detainer on April 17 to ensure he is transferred to federal custody after local proceedings conclude.
“Prior to these horrific crimes, this illegal alien lacked a criminal record in the U.S.,” Bis said. “Under Secretary Mullin, ICE lodged an arrest detainer with South Carolina to ensure this monster is never loose in our communities again.”
Immigration and Customs Enforcement lodged a detainer for a suspect accused in a South Carolina case involving a minor, officials said. (Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)
Bis said the case underscores the need for coordination between federal and local authorities.
“Thankfully, South Carolina cooperates with ICE law enforcement,” Bis added. “This is why we need cooperation from state and local partners, so together we can keep criminals off our streets and make America safe again.”
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