Crime & Safety
MA Man Wanted On Child Rape Charges Found In CT, 2 Kids 'Safe': Police
After police issued a warrant for a man on child rape charges, police say he fled the state with his two kids, placing them 'in danger.'
NEW BEDFORD, MA — An accused child rapist was arrested in Connecticut over the weekend after he was found with his two children who were considered to be in danger, the New Bedford Police Department and Bristol County District Attorney's Office said.
Leon Mejia-Vincente, 46, was arrested Friday after fleeing New Bedford on June 8 with his 17-year-old daughter and 6-year-old son. New Bedford police say Mejia-Vincente fled the area after he was issued an arrest warrant for the rape and sexual abuse of a child.
Mejia-Vincente was found in Willimantic, Connecticut, and was arrested around 3 p.m. Both children were taken to child services in Connecticut.
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"I'd like to express my gratitude to all of the various law enforcement agencies involved with this situation which could have ended tragically," said New Bedford Police Chief Paul Oliveria. "This is an outstanding example of partnership that stresses how critical it is to have community cooperation."
Mejia-Vincente is due back in Massachusetts court at a later date.
Find out what's happening in Across Massachusettsfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
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