Indian National Detained in US Child Assault Case, Deportation Proceedings Begin

US immigration authorities have detained an Indian national in New Jersey who faces serious criminal charges, including the alleged sexual assault of a child under the age of 13. Officials confirmed that deportation proceedings have been initiated under US immigration law.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) identified the individual as Vodela Yashaswi Kottapalli and described him as an undocumented immigrant. According to authorities, he is currently in custody while legal and immigration proceedings move forward.

The charges against him include alleged sexual assault involving a minor, larceny linked to shoplifting, and public disorder offenses. Officials stated that he will remain in detention pending the outcome of removal proceedings.

Authorities did not disclose the exact date of arrest, the county where the case has been filed, or additional details about the alleged incidents. Under US law, criminal charges represent allegations, and the case will be determined through the judicial process.

Immigration Enforcement and Legal Process

US immigration law permits the detention of non-citizens accused of certain serious offenses while their criminal cases proceed in court. Individuals facing charges involving minors or violent crimes are often prioritized for detention and potential removal.

If deportation is ordered, the process involves verification of nationality and coordination between US authorities and the individual’s country of origin.

Rising Deportations of Indian Nationals

The detention comes amid a broader increase in deportations of Indian nationals from the United States. According to official figures presented in India’s Parliament, more than 3,800 Indian citizens were deported from the US in 2025 following nationality verification and bilateral coordination.

Authorities have not released a detailed breakdown distinguishing deportations tied to criminal allegations from those based solely on immigration violations.

Enforcement Priorities and Public Safety Concerns

US authorities have emphasized that individuals accused or convicted of serious offenses, particularly those involving minors, remain a priority for detention and enforcement action.

Cases involving both criminal charges and immigration violations often proceed through parallel legal pathways, including criminal court proceedings and immigration hearings.

The case highlights the intersection of immigration enforcement and criminal justice procedures in the United States, as well as ongoing cooperation between governments in handling deportations.