Traveler Wanted In Hudson Valley Sexual Assault Captured At JFK

CITY OF KINGSTON, NY — A man wanted in connection to an Ulster County sexual assault was captured at a New York City airport.

The City of Kingston Police Department says that 37-year-old Faisal Saif was arrested on Monday at John F. Kennedy International Airport.

He was detained by Homeland Security on an arrest warrant issued by Kingston Court for a felony first-degree criminal sex act. Saif was then turned over to Kingston police officers, taken to Kingston City Police Headquarters for processing, and held for arraignment.

After being arraigned in Kingston City Court on Tuesday, he was released and instructed to report to pretrial supervison.

Kingston police say they opened an investigation last year into a sexual assault Saif allegedly committed on February 15, 2024, at Rondout Market, against a 28-year-old victim.

Upon learning of the investigation, Faisal left the U.S. and reportedly traveled to Yemen, according to police.

After further evidence was found supporting the allegations, police say that charges were filed in Kingston City Court and an arrest warrant was filed.

Kingston police say that the investigation remains open and anyone with information about this incident or any similar incidents should contact detectives at (845) 331-8404 or Det. Michael Defrance at this email address or (845) 943-5729.