Illegal Immigrant Charged with Sexually Assaulting Teen in Nashville

ICE lodges detainer for Egyptian national accused of breaking into apartment and attacking sleeping victim

Jan. 31, 2026 at 3:55am

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US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has lodged an arrest detainer against Mena Mohsen Farez Nmn Awad, a 31-year-old illegal immigrant from Egypt, who is accused of sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl while she was asleep in her bed in Nashville, Tennessee on New Year's Eve. Awad allegedly broke into the girl's apartment, assaulted her, and was found with a handgun before the victim was able to escape and contact authorities.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about the potential risks posed by illegal immigrants with histories of violence and crime, as well as the debate around immigration policies like the Diversity Visa program that allowed Awad to enter the country. It also raises questions about bail reform and whether repeat offenders should be released back into communities.

The details

According to reports, Awad allegedly broke into the girl's apartment in Nashville on December 31, 2025 and began sexually assaulting her while she was asleep in bed next to her nephew. The victim woke up to find Awad in her bed with a handgun in his waistband. She was able to break free, grab her nephew, and told Awad she would not report the incident if he left. The victim then contacted her sister, who called the authorities. Awad was later apprehended by police in Louisville, Kentucky on January 16th and extradited to Tennessee. He has been charged with aggravated rape with a weapon, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and aggravated burglary.

  • On December 31, 2025, Awad allegedly broke into the victim's apartment and sexually assaulted her.
  • On January 16, 2026, Awad was apprehended by police in Louisville, Kentucky.
  • Awad was extradited to Tennessee the following week.

The players

Mena Mohsen Farez Nmn Awad

A 31-year-old illegal immigrant from Egypt who is accused of sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl in Nashville, Tennessee.

US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal law enforcement agency that has lodged an arrest detainer against Awad.

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What they’re saying

“Horrendous immigration policies allowed this monster into our country and made victims of children and families. This child rapist was allowed into our country by the Diversity Lottery program. Secretary Noem paused the diversity lottery to ensure no more Americans are harmed by this disastrous program.”

— Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary (DHS)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Mena Mohsen Farez Nmn Awad out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights ongoing concerns about the potential risks posed by illegal immigrants with histories of violence and crime, as well as the debate around immigration policies like the Diversity Visa program that allowed the accused to enter the country. It also raises questions about bail reform and whether repeat offenders should be released back into communities.