A Guatemalan man in the country illegally has been charged with the first-degree rape of a 12-year-old in Marshall County.
With the help of U.S. Homeland Security, Marshall County deputies arrested Manuel Andres Francisco Tomas, 26, of Albertville, on Tuesday on a felony warrant after the Marshall County Criminal Investigations Division received a report of a minor who had given birth.
Sheriff Phil Sims said they were able to match Tomas' DNA to the baby's after it was born.
Sims confirmed to 1819 News the suspect is an illegal alien from Guatemala, and U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) would be issuing a detainer Wednesday, making Tomas the 13th detainer in the county jail.
Sims said more charges are likely. Tomas is being held without bond pending an Aniah's Law hearing.
U.S. Rep. Robert Alderholt said this "horrific crime" should have never happened and that he's working with ICE to prevent future victims.
"An innocent child's life has been forever changed because our nation has failed to secure its borders and enforce immigration laws," he said. "This is exactly why President Trump has directed ICE to focus on removing illegal immigrants who have committed—or are committing—violent crimes. We must protect our communities and prevent tragedies like this. No family should have to suffer due to Washington's inaction on illegal immigration."
He continued, "To help stop crimes like this, I invited ICE officers to the Fourth District last week. This visit allowed them to connect with local law enforcement agencies to better understand the most pressing needs in our communities.
"I remain committed to working alongside President Trump and my colleagues in Congress to secure our borders, enforce immigration laws, and ensure that those who break them are held accountable and removed from our country. The safety of our children and communities must always come first."
To connect with the story's author or comment, email daniel.taylor@1819news.com or find him on X and Facebook.
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