UMVA has learned that a Brazilian national, wanted for serious crimes, was apprehended by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in North Carolina after a daring attempt to flee a traffic stop while preparing to escape to Mexico.
Felipe Linares de Oliveira Dell Aquilla, also known as "Don," was taken into custody on June 5 in Mooresville, North Carolina, following a vehicle pursuit that ended in a crash. Federal authorities reveal that Dell Aquilla was a commander within two notorious Brazil-based criminal organizations, designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Dell Aquilla was wanted in Brazil on charges of criminal association and extortion. He had been preparing to leave the United States for Mexico, but law enforcement intelligence indicated that he was also holding his wife against her will as he plotted his escape.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that Dell Aquilla's wife had been held captive, and investigators later interviewed her to gather evidence. The arrest demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement agencies to protect communities from international criminals and prevent further harm to innocent people.
Mark M. Zito, special agent in charge of HSI in North and South Carolina, praised the operation, stating that the arrest was a result of swift and decisive action by agents working alongside state and local law enforcement partners. The goal was to ensure that Dell Aquilla would no longer threaten neighborhood safety.
During the pursuit, Dell Aquilla allegedly attempted to flee on foot before being taken into custody. A search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of multiple cellphones, laptops, cash, and a 9 mm handgun. He faces a state felony charge of fleeing to elude arrest and additional charges of kidnapping and being an alien in possession of a firearm.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Dell Aquilla illegally entered the United States at an unknown date and location. The operation involved collaboration between HSI Greensboro, HSI Charlotte, HSI New England, the Iredell County Sheriff's Office, and the Mooresville Police Department.
The arrest has prevented further harm to innocent people, and law enforcement agencies continue to pursue those who endanger communities, bringing them to justice. Dell Aquilla was transported to a county jail, and ICE has lodged a detainer on him.
