U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has issued an arrest detainer for Leyter Jeferson Arauz-Medina, a Nicaraguan national accused of raping a 54-year-old woman in Chicago on August 31, 2025. Authorities state that Arauz-Medina entered the United States near Eagle Pass, Texas, on September 17, 2024, and was released into the country. The incident took place in Chicago, which is a sanctuary city and does not often honor ICE detainers. This has led to discussions about public safety and immigration enforcement.
According to police, Arauz-Medina allegedly assaulted the victim by dragging her into an alley, strangling her, and causing her to lose consciousness. Part of the incident was recorded on private surveillance video. The victim was able to escape and seek help from a nearby food truck worker.
ICE officials, including Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin, have criticized Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and sanctuary policies, stating that these policies protect individuals accused of violent crimes. An immigration judge ordered Arauz-Medina removed from the U.S. on July 17, 2025. There are ongoing concerns about the enforcement of removal orders in sanctuary jurisdictions…