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last mo.

Freeport Arson Suspect Handed to ICE After Release Without Bail

The transfer puts the undocumented defendant in federal detention during the local arson prosecution.

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An illegal Guatemalan migrant allegedly behind a twisted year-long arson spree on Long Island walked free under the state's bail reform laws – but was quickly handed over to ICE in a coordinated effort to keep him behind bars, according to police and officials.
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Overview

  • Nassau County police transferred 27-year-old Elder Lopez Avalos to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement after a judge released him without monetary bail on arson charges.
  • Prosecutors said New York law does not make these arson charges bail-eligible, so the court set non-monetary conditions instead of cash bail.
  • Police allege he set vehicles on fire in Freeport using gasoline and a ripped T-shirt as a wick at Municipal Lot 1, near the Woodward Children's Center, and on Brookside Avenue.
  • Authorities have cited up to 10 vehicle fires tied to the case, while court papers currently list six counts of arson.
  • County officials criticized the release decision and highlighted public-safety concerns, and the governor’s office noted recent bail-law changes meant to give judges more discretion.