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Last Updated:February 17, 2026, 08:48 IST
US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) identified the man as Vodela Yashaswi Kottapalli and described him as an undocumented immigrant.
The agency said he faces pending charges of sexual assault, larceny linked to shoplifting and public disorder.
US immigration authorities detained an Indian national in New Jersey who is facing multiple charges, including the alleged sexual assault of a child under 13. In a statement posted on social media, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) identified the man as Vodela Yashaswi Kottapalli and described him as an undocumented immigrant. The agency said he faces pending charges of sexual assault, larceny linked to shoplifting and public disorder.
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ICE said he will remain in custody pending removal proceedings under US immigration law.
Authorities did not disclose the date of his arrest, the county where the case has been filed or additional details about the alleged offences. Criminal charges at this stage are allegations and the case will be determined through the judicial process. the agency said.
Deportations Of Indians See Sharp Rise
The detention comes amid a significant rise in the deportation of Indian nationals from the United States. The Indian government told Parliament that more than 3,800 Indians were deported from the US in 2025 following verification of nationality and coordination between the two countries. Officials have not released a detailed breakdown distinguishing deportations linked to criminal charges from those based solely on immigration violations.
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US authorities have said non-citizens accused or convicted of serious crimes, particularly those involving minors, are prioritised for detention and removal. Under US law, such individuals can be held in immigration custody while their criminal cases proceed through the courts.
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Location :
New York, United States of America (USA)
First Published:
February 17, 2026, 08:48 IST
News world Indian Man Detained By US Immigration Authorities On Child Sexual Assault Charges
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