International fugitive wanted for murder arrested during routine traffic stop

A routine traffic stop in Texas led to the arrest of a 21-year-old international fugitive wanted for murder. The Splendora Police Department said officers identified Leo Acosta Sanchez while she was driving and called for backup before pulling her over.

“As part of a joint effort with the Department of Homeland Security, Ms. Sanchez was taken into custody to face charges related to the alleged crimes committed. The Splendora Police Department commends the prompt and effective collaboration with our federal partners to ensure the apprehension of this dangerous person,” the department wrote in a statement on Facebook.

Authorities did not provide details about why Sánchez, originally from Mexico, was wanted by Interpol.

A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement official said Fox News that Sanchez entered the United States illegally in 2023.

“Acosta entered the United States as a nonimmigrant on August 20, 2023, and violated the conditions of her admission,” ICE said. “She remains in ICE custody pending adjudication of her immigration proceedings.”