Columbus, OH – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has arrested a Ghanaian national, Joseph Osei Boateng, in Columbus, Ohio, following his conviction for sex crimes involving a minor. The apprehension took place on January 29, 2025, as part of ICE’s ongoing efforts to remove individuals who pose a threat to public safety.
Boateng, who is reported to have legally entered the United States in 2019, was convicted in October 2024 by the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas on two counts of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor.
The nature of his conviction underscores the severity of crimes against children and the commitment of law enforcement agencies to hold offenders accountable.
In a statement, Robert Lynch, Field Office Director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) in Detroit, emphasized the agency’s dedication to protecting vulnerable populations.
“Sex crimes against a minor threaten the very fabric of our communities,” said Lynch.
“Our ICE team will continue to identify and apprehend individuals amenable to removal who have victimized our most vulnerable population.”
Boateng is currently in ICE custody as authorities proceed with his immigration case, which could lead to deportation.
His arrest highlights ICE’s focus on targeting individuals who have committed serious offenses while residing in the U.S.A.
Boateng’s immigration proceedings will determine his fate, but for now, his arrest serves as a stark reminder of law enforcement’s vigilance in protecting the most vulnerable members of society.
Read more on this story
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ice-columbus-arrests-ghanaian-national-convicted-sex-crimes-minor
