A man from Hamilton who had been evading authorities since 1991 was taken into custody by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in California earlier this month. Identified as Charles Peter Billone, aged 64, he had failed to show up in court 35 years ago after being released on a recognizance. Billone’s initial arrest in 1991 was related to charges of sexual assault and sexual interference.
According to ICE, Billone was wanted in Canada for sexual assault against a child, along with allegations of theft, assault, and drug offenses. Hamilton police revealed in 2014 that Billone had managed to escape capture by assuming a new identity, making it challenging for law enforcement to locate him through conventional methods.
ICE confirmed that Billone is currently in custody awaiting removal proceedings. Hamilton police spokesperson Jackie Penman stated that they have been collaborating closely with the Crown’s office on this matter. As of now, there are no extradition procedures in progress.