One of Two Escaped Detainees From Colorado Immigration Center Caught, One Still Missing
One of the two men who escaped from an immigration detention facility in Aurora, Colorado, earlier this week has been captured, while the other remains at large, authorities confirmed.
Man Caught 12 Miles From Detention Center
Joel Gonzalez-Gonzalez, 32, was arrested early Friday morning after a sheriff’s deputy from Adams County noticed him acting suspiciously about 12 miles from the facility. The incident happened around 4:30 a.m., according to Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Sgt. Adam Sherman.
Once the deputy confirmed his identity as one of the escapees, Gonzalez-Gonzalez was taken into temporary custody until officials from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrived to take him back into custody.
How the Escape Happened
Both men escaped Tuesday night during a power outage at the detention center, which is run by The GEO Group, a private company under contract with ICE. Reports suggest that doors opened during the blackout, allowing the men to simply walk out.
While ICE claimed they immediately requested help from local authorities, Aurora Police Chief Todd Chamberlain said there was a four-hour delay in informing his department. By then, he said, it was too late to assist effectively in the search.
Gonzalez-Gonzalez’s Background
Gonzalez-Gonzalez, a Mexican national, was previously being held at the Adams County jail from February 9 to February 12 on local criminal charges, including second-degree motor vehicle theft. Afterward, he was transferred to ICE custody to face immigration proceedings.
According to ICE, Gonzalez-Gonzalez has been living in the United States since 2013 and had violated the terms of his entry. He is currently represented by a public defender, who, by policy, does not comment on ongoing cases.
One Escapee Still Missing
The second detainee who escaped along with Gonzalez-Gonzalez remains unaccounted for as of now. Authorities have not yet released his name or further details about his case.
This recent escape incident from the Aurora immigration detention center has raised serious concerns about security and communication between federal and local law enforcement. While one of the escapees has now been caught, the search continues for the other. Meanwhile, ICE is facing criticism over its delayed notification to local police, which may have impacted efforts to catch both men sooner.