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Convicted Felon and Gambia National Arrested by Border Patrol

Release Date
Wed, 10/07/2020

DETROIT — Two citizens of Gambia have been arrested by Detroit Sector Border Patrol agents near Luna Pier, Michigan. One subject is a convicted felon with lengthy criminal record.

On October 1, at approximately 10 a.m., Border Patrol agents assigned to the Gibraltar Station were dispatched to assist Michigan State Police with a traffic stop near Luna Pier, Michigan. Upon arrival, Agents encountered two male subjects stating they were citizens of Gambia. Records checks on the pair showed both subjects had overstayed their B2 visas by a combined total of 17 years.  The two were transported back to the station for further investigation and identification.

During processing, it was discovered that one subject identified as Salifu Jatta, a 28 year old national of Gambia, is a convicted felon with a lengthy criminal record. In 2017 Jatta plead guilty and was convicted for Grand Larceny in New York County. His record also includes convictions for trespassing, larceny, marijuana - sell, public order crimes, and marijuana possession. He also has numerous other felony charges still pending out of New York. Jatta has been living in the United States illegally for the past seven years after overstaying his B2 visa he entered on.

The second subject was identified as a 36 year-old male citizen of Gambia, has also been living in the United States illegally for past 10 years after overstaying his B2 visa he entered on.

“We have removed a hardened criminal from the streets of America,” said Patrol Agent in Charge Jon Rodrigue. “This arrest is the result of law enforcement teamwork and should be commended.”

The two subjects are currently being charged with violating 8 USC 1182.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021