Arrest in Ohio a Hispanic fugitive who was 23 years fugitive for kidnapping and sexual abuse
The suspect, wanted since 2002 on kidnapping and sexual abuse charges in Ohio, was living under a false identity. He was captured during a traffic stop.
The United States Marshals Service (USMS) reported that Juan Carlos Munoz, 52, was arrested on Thursday in Ohio after being on the run for more than 23 years.
Munoz was wanted by the Ashtabula County Sheriff's Office (Ohio) since January 11, 2002, when he failed to appear at a hearing for kidnapping and felony sexual abuse.
A false identity for 20 years
Authorities explained that Munoz had been living under another name since 2002, using false documentation to avoid being tracked.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) team investigated his whereabouts for a year and finally identified him when he left a surveillance location.
During a traffic stop, Munoz gave officers a fake Ohio ID. However, fingerprints confirmed his true identity, the statement said.
Arrest and Extradition
“After 23 years of evading arrest, our team captured this deceptive and dangerous fugitive,” U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott said.
Munoz was transported to the Lake County Jail where he awaits extradition to Ashtabula County.
Authorities noted the investigation remains ongoing.