ICE arrests violent criminal alien outside Northampton Prison without cooperation from prison officials

PHILADELPHIA – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested Amilcar Josue Villalvir Mendez, a citizen of Honduras, at the Northampton County Prison in Easton, Feb. 27. Prison officials failed to honor an immigration detainer and turn Villalvir over to ICE officials within the security of the prison, thus risking the safety of the public, the officers and Villalvir himself. Villalvir is a criminal alien with prior convictions for aggravated assault, theft by unlawful taking, possession of marijuana, speeding more than 25 MPH over the speed limit and retail theft.

"The arrest of Amilcar Josue Villalvir Mendez highlights the crucial importance of local and federal law enforcement cooperation in ensuring public safety. Northampton County choosing to place politics over safety instead of honoring our detainer, put everyone involved at unnecessary risk,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Philadelphia acting Field Office Director Brian McShane. “We urge all jurisdictions to prioritize the safety of their residents by honoring immigration detainers and working collaboratively with us. Our commitment to enforcing immigration laws and protecting public safety remains unwavering, and we will continue to pursue justice for those who violate our nation's laws."

Villalvir was arrested by the Palmer Township Police Department Sept. 27, 2021, for aggravated assault, simple assault, and harassment after police were dispatched to a residence for a report of a domestic disturbance. Villalvir pled guilty March 31, 2002, in the Northampton County Court of Common Pleas to aggravated assault and was sentenced to six to 23 months confinement. He was resentenced to one year to 23 months less two days confinement after violating the original terms.

Villalvir was arrested again by the Palmer Township Police Department for access device fraud, theft by unlawful taking, and receiving stolen property on Feb. 26, 2024. His girlfriend, the previous assault victim, died of a drug overdose Oct. 29, 2023, and the next day, just hours after she had passed away, Villalvir was observed on video surveillance withdrawing money from her bank account at an ATM. Villalvir pled guilty to theft by unlawful taking in the Northampton County Magisterial District Court.

Members of the public with information can report crimes or suspicious activity by dialing the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

Learn more about ICE Philadelphia’s mission to increase public safety in our Pennsylvania, Delaware and West Virginia communities on X: @EROPhiladelphia