Polk County, Florida, Sheriff Grady Judd expressed outrage following the arrest of a 24-year-old undocumented immigrant accused of a violent sexual assault on a 77-year-old woman. The sheriff described the incident as an "over-the-top" and "vicious sexual battery" that occurred during a home invasion.
According to the sheriff's office, the assault took place early Saturday morning. The elderly victim reportedly awoke to find an intruder in her bedroom. The suspect allegedly forcibly removed her clothing and sexually assaulted her, reportedly choking her when she attempted to resist or escape. The suspect fled the scene before the victim contacted law enforcement.
Sheriff's detectives canvassed the neighborhood and apprehended Axel Antonio Espinal Herrera, a Honduran national, in a nearby residence. He was found with two other undocumented individuals from Honduras, who were also taken into custody on immigration detainers. Herrera was reportedly in the shower when detectives arrived. Authorities stated that Herrera matched the victim's description, and clothing described by the victim was found in the home. Detectives also observed scratches on Herrera consistent with the victim's account. He was additionally found to be in possession of cocaine.
Herrera faces multiple charges, including kidnapping, sexual battery by force, burglary, battery, tampering with evidence, possession of cocaine, and possession of drug paraphernalia. The sheriff's office noted that under Florida law, his immigration status elevates each charge by one degree, potentially leading to multiple life sentences upon conviction.
"This couldn’t have occurred if [Herrera] was not in this country," Sheriff Judd stated, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring Herrera serves a lengthy prison sentence. He characterized the suspect as a "very violent, very dangerous rapist."
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was notified and has placed a detainer on Herrera. The two other individuals found in the residence were also placed on ICE holds.
