ICE removes criminal illegal alien wanted for rape in Ecuador

PHILADELPHIA – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement removed Jose Luis Romero Diaz, a citizen of Ecuador with a final order of removal, to Ecuador, March 25. Romero is a foreign fugitive wanted by law enforcement authorities in Ecuador for rape, trafficking in controlled substances and theft.

“Romero’s removal underscores ICE Philadelphia’s critical role in protecting our communities from those who present a significant danger to public safety. Through diligent enforcement of immigration laws, ICE prioritizes the apprehension and removal of individuals who are wanted for serious crimes,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Philadelphia acting Field Office Director Brian McShane.

The U.S. Border Patrol arrested Romero Nov. 20, 2023, near El Paso, Texas, for entering the United States without inspection or parole by an immigration official. The next day, the Border Patrol served him a notice to appear and released him on his own recognizance.

An immigration judge in New York ordered Romero removed from the United States to Ecuador in absentia March 20, 2024.

The New York Police Department arrested Romero for robbery causing physical injury Nov. 2, 2024. These charges remain pending.

Romero reported to the ICE New York field office in New York, New York, and requested copies of his immigration documents Jan. 14. ICE New York arrested him that same day and transferred him to ICE Philadelphia at the Moshannon Valley Processing Center in Philipsburg, Pennsylvania, where he remained prior until his removal.

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.