Katy, Texas — A man from El Salvador, wanted for allegedly assaulting and sexually attacking a woman in Houston, was apprehended last week by federal law enforcement. Cesar Orlando Castro Serrano, who has been on the run since early 2023, was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on November 10.
Authorities linked Castro Serrano to a severe incident that occurred in February 2023. He faces multiple charges, including aggravated sexual assault, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and aggravated kidnapping. Reports indicate that the assault involved striking a 22-year-old woman with a tire iron before leaving her in a critical state in a wooded area.
Since his disappearance, Castro Serrano had been included on a wanted list, and law enforcement officials continued to seek his capture. The arrest was hailed by the Department of Homeland Security, with Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin emphasizing the brutality of the crime and affirming a commitment to public safety. “This heinous predator should never have been in our country,” she stated, highlighting the risks posed by individuals who exploit immigration laws.
Castro Serrano entered the United States illegally in 2015, shortly before an immigration judge ordered his deportation in 2016. For reasons not disclosed, he remained in the country and allegedly committed the violent crime that led to him being sought by law enforcement.
Following his arrest, he was transferred to local authorities in Harris County, where he will face the charges. ICE has placed a detainer on Castro Serrano, meaning they will be notified prior to his release to ensure he is remanded into federal custody.
The incident and subsequent arrest have reignited discussions around immigration policies and the handling of criminal cases involving undocumented individuals in the U.S. Officials continue to advocate for stricter measures to hold accountable those who violate the law.
McLaughlin underscored that the federal government remains vigilant. “If you come to our country illegally and victimize Americans, we will find you and arrest you,” she asserted.