Thread: Attempted rape suspect might be illegal migrant

http://www.sbsun.com/news/ci_4021050

Suspect might be illegal migrant

Andrew Edwards, Staff Writer
San Bernardino County Sun

REDLANDS - A suspected illegal immigrant was arrested after he tried to rape a teenage girl, police said Thursday.

Manuel Avila, 26, has been booked on suspicion of kidnapping and assault with attempt to commit rape, according to Redlands police.

Police spokesman Carl Baker said officers believe that Avila, a Mexican national, did not legally enter the United States. Avila was taken to West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga on Thursday morning.

Police said a 13-year-old girl was walking with a friend in the 1000 block of Oxford Drive on Wednesday night when Avila grabbed her and forced her into a carport. The girl fought with her attacker while her friend ran to an apartment for help. A resident living in a nearby apartment helped the girl escape.

Both Avila and the girl ran after the neighbor intervened, according to police. The girl was not injured, Baker said.

The girl's rescuer recognized Avila, who was found by police at a nearby apartment and taken into custody.

The Sheriff's Department cooperates with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to verify the immigration status of suspects incarcerated at West Valley Detention Center.

Sheriff's spokeswoman Jodi Miller said any illegal immigrants accused of crimes in San Bernardino County are prosecuted and, if convicted, are required to serve out their sentences before being deported.

"They're still held accountable and have to be prosecuted," Miller said, adding she did not have specific information available related to Avila.

And they are here only to work.....I guess they consider rape as part of the working day.