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Illegal Immigrant Accused Of Kidnapping 4-Year-Old In New York
A disturbing case involving an illegal immigrant is raising concerns across New York.
Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:23am
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A harsh, gritty image of the physical evidence of an alleged crime, reflecting the disturbing nature of the case.NYC TodayA man allegedly in the country illegally is accused of kidnapping a 4-year-old girl in New York. The United States Department of Homeland Security and ICE announced the arrest of Carlos Corte-Corte, a "criminal illegal alien from Ecuador." Officials allege he kidnapped the child while she was at a laundromat with her mother in Patchogue, New York, on March 28. The 4-year-old was later found by police at a nearby library.
Why it matters
This case has raised concerns about immigration policies and the release of undocumented immigrants accused of crimes in sanctuary cities. It highlights the ongoing debate around immigration enforcement and the potential risks to public safety.
The details
According to Homeland Security, Corte-Corte illegally entered the U.S. on at least three occasions in 2020 and was removed each time. He "illegally" re-entered the U.S. a fourth time at an unknown place and time before attempting to kidnap the child. ICE Director Todd Lyons sent New York Attorney General Leticia James a letter asking her to not release Corte-Corte and others from jail, but her office did not respond.
- On March 28, Corte-Corte allegedly kidnapped the 4-year-old girl from a laundromat in Patchogue, New York.
- On March 31, Corte-Corte was detained by ICE after sanctuary politicians released him from jail.
The players
Carlos Corte-Corte
A "criminal illegal alien from Ecuador" who is accused of kidnapping a 4-year-old girl in New York.
Lauren Bis
The Acting Assistant Secretary of the United States Department of Homeland Security.
Todd Lyons
The Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Leticia James
The New York Attorney General.
What they’re saying
“This three-time deported criminal, illegal alien, Carlos Corte-Corte, kidnapped an innocent four-year-old girl from a laundromat on Long Island. New York sanctuary politicians chose to release this kidnapper from jail to prey on more innocent children rather than cooperate with ICE law enforcement.”
— Lauren Bis, Acting Assistant Secretary, United States Department of Homeland Security
“Sanctuary politicians must stop putting politics above public safety. This type of insanity leads to more crimes and more innocent victims. Thanks to our ICE law enforcement, this sicko is off our streets.”
— Lauren Bis, Acting Assistant Secretary, United States Department of Homeland Security
What’s next
ICE Director Todd Lyons sent New York Attorney General Leticia James a letter asking her to not release Corte-Corte and others from jail, but her office did not respond. The case is ongoing and it remains to be seen if Corte-Corte will face further legal action.
The takeaway
This case highlights the ongoing debate around immigration enforcement and the potential risks to public safety when undocumented immigrants accused of crimes are released from jail in sanctuary cities. It raises questions about the effectiveness of current immigration policies and the need for better coordination between federal and local authorities.
