A man from Hamilton who had been evading authorities since 1991 was apprehended by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in California earlier this month. Charles Peter Billone, aged 64, failed to show up in court after being released on bail 35 years ago. He was initially arrested in 1991 on charges related to sexual assault and interference.
According to ICE, Billone, wanted in Canada for sexual assault involving a child, has a criminal record that includes theft, assault, and drug convictions. Hamilton police mentioned in 2014 that he had managed to remain at large by assuming different identities, making it challenging for law enforcement to track him down using conventional methods.
ICE confirmed that Billone is currently in custody awaiting deportation proceedings. Hamilton police spokesperson Jackie Penman informed CBC Hamilton that they have been collaborating closely with the Crown’s office on this matter. Penman clarified that there are no ongoing extradition procedures at this time.