Rapist Who Fled To Mexico Nearly 2 Decades Ago Will Now Be Staying Put For A Long Time

MOUNT VERNON, NY — Justice was a long time coming, but a violent sex offender will pay for his horrific crimes after nearly two decades on the run.

Westchester County District Attorney Susan Cacace announced that the fugitive from justice who fled to Mexico after raping a young child nearly two decades ago was sentenced Friday to 18 years in prison.

Galo Herrera, 53, was also sentenced to 20 years of post-release supervision and will have to register as a sex offender. The judge also ordered a permanent order of protection to the victim.

"This substantial prison sentence is long overdue," Cacace said. "I am grateful to the victim for her courage and strength, which guided the prosecution of this case. My administration will support all survivors of sexual abuse. There is no tolerance for this conduct in Westchester County."

Between December 2006 and January 2007, Herrera forcibly raped a young child who was under the age of 13 years old at the time. Herrera fled the jurisdiction before he could be apprehended on the charges.

In 2008, Herrera was indicted on one felony count of predatory sexual assault against a child, two felony counts of first-degree rape, and three misdemeanor counts of endangering the welfare of a child.

He was extradited to Westchester earlier this year. In September, Herrera pleaded guilty to one count of first-degree rape.

The case was investigated by the Mount Vernon Police Department, the Westchester DA's Office, and the FBI. The Westchester County Department of Labs and Research and the New York State Police Crime Lab assisted in the investigation.

SEE ALSO:

• Fugitive Extradited Here From Mexico On Child Rape Charges Admits Guilt: DA
• Mexican National Extradited To Westchester To Face Child Rape Charges
• WCPD 'Welcome Wagon' Takes Custody Of 2 International Fugitives At JFK