Undocumented immigrant admits to kidnapping and raping Louisiana girl

On September 4, 2023, Diego Rodriguez-Salvador, a 23-year-old undocumented immigrant from Honduras, was arrested for the kidnapping and rape of a 13-year-old girl near New Orleans. The incident began when Rodriguez-Salvador lured the girl into his car under the pretense of giving her a ride to a nearby store. However, he drove in the opposite direction, brandished a knife, and assaulted her before dropping her off in her neighborhood. Following the report of the crime, local police initiated a manhunt, which led to the discovery of a vehicle linked to the suspect. Rodriguez-Salvador was described by police as a "ghost" due to the limited information available about him, including his undocumented status in the United States. After a brief negotiation with law enforcement, he surrendered and admitted to the charges against him. The Kenner Police Department is collaborating with Homeland Security Investigations to gather more information about his background and immigration status. The case has raised concerns about the safety of minors and the implications of undocumented immigration. Rodriguez-Salvador faces serious charges, including second-degree kidnapping and second-degree rape of a juvenile victim. The police chief emphasized the need for vigilance in the community to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. This incident highlights the ongoing issues surrounding undocumented immigrants and their interactions with the legal system, as well as the challenges law enforcement faces in addressing crimes involving vulnerable populations. The investigation continues as authorities seek to ensure justice for the victim and accountability for the perpetrator.