Image Credit: Limestone County Sheriff 
A Mexican citizen has been arrested and charged with rape and sexual abuse of a minor in Alabama.
On Friday, the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) announced details about the disturbing case.
Working alongside the Alabama Department of Human Resources and the Limestone Child Advocacy Center, LCSO began investigating reported sexual abuse of a 14-year-old child in late June.
Authorities identified 47-year-old Cesar Gonzales as a suspect and arrested him on July 17 in Athens, AL.
Gonzales was charged with Rape in the First Degree and Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree and ordered held without bond during an Aniah’s Law hearing on Thursday.
Additionally, Immigration and Customs Enforcement has issued a detainer against Gonzales, indicating he may be in the U.S. illegally.
“Our deputies and investigators worked swiftly alongside our partners at DHR and the Limestone Child Advocacy Center to ensure this case was handled with the urgency and care it deserved,” said Limestone County Sheriff Joshua McLaughlin.
“We will always prioritize the safety of our children and pursue justice for victims of these heinous crimes. I’m proud of the teamwork that led to this arrest and thankful to the court for recognizing the seriousness of the charges by ordering the suspect held without bond.”
Authorities continue to catch dangerous foreign criminals in the U.S.
