Federal immigration officials are urging New York authorities not to release Aureliano Antonio Melendez Reyes, a 59-year-old Salvadoran man accused of sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl on Long Island. They have warned that he should be turned over to ICE if released.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that it has filed an immigration detention order against Reyes, who faces charges in Suffolk County for rape, sexual abuse, and endangering the welfare of a child.
According to prosecutors, the alleged incident took place on June 6 while the girl was walking home in Huntington. Reyes reportedly approached her several times, asking for her phone number. After she declined, he allegedly forced her into an alley and assaulted her.
Eventually, the girl managed to escape and called 911 while fleeing from Reyes, who was said to be pursuing her. Officers responded quickly and took him into custody.
Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney described the allegations as “deeply disturbing.” He emphasized that a 16-year-old girl should be able to walk without fear of being targeted or attacked. He committed to prosecuting those who pose serious risks to community safety, especially children.
DHS states that Reyes entered the U.S. illegally, though the specifics of when and where are unclear. He was given a final order of removal by an immigration judge back in 1998.
“This sex offender should never come to our country and prey on these innocent girls,” commented Lauren Biss, acting assistant secretary of DHS, emphasizing the need for strict measures against individuals like Reyes.
Biss also called on New York Governor Kathy Hochul and officials in sanctuary jurisdictions not to release this individual back into the community, insisting that such actions jeopardize public safety.
DHS further mentioned that New York has released around 7,000 criminally illegal immigrants since January 20, 2025, many of whom are accused of violent crimes, including murder and assault. They also noted that over 7,000 individuals in New York custody are currently under federal immigration detainer operations.
Fox News Digital has reached out to both Hochul’s office and the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office for additional comments.
