An illegal immigrant with a troubling history of criminal activity has been arrested for attempting to kidnap and rape a stranger on a popular Virginia trail.

The arrest occurred just days after his most recent release from jail. The community is shocked and there is outrage among law enforcement and public officials.

The Herndon Police Department announced during a Monday press conference that 31-year-old Denis Humberto Naverrette Romero, a Honduran national, charged with abduction with intent to defile and rape.

He is currently being held without bond at the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center.

Herndon Police Chief Maggie DeBoard expressed her deep concern, saying, "Let me start by saying that I am incredibly saddened and outraged that a crime like this could happen here in the town of Herndon." 

She assured residents, "You should feel safe here in town knowing that this individual has been removed from our streets in a rapid manner and remains in custody. And we will do everything in our power to ensure that he does remain in custody."

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Escalating Crimes of Illegal Immigrant

"This is the only stranger rape that we have had in the town in my more than 12 years as chief of police," DeBoard noted, highlighting the severity of the incident.

Romero’s criminal history paints a concerning picture of escalating violence. He has been linked to multiple sexual assaults and indecent exposure incidents since 2022. His prior charges range from weapons and auto theft to sexual offenses, yet he has not served any significant jail time.

Romero, reportedly homeless, has had several charges reduced or dropped by prosecutors, allowing him to remain at-large in the community. His crimes have now escalated to abduction and rape, according to police reports.

Details of the Attack

The attack occurred on the Washington and Old Dominion (W&OD) trail, a popular spot for local residents.

Chief DeBoard explained, "This kind of case not only impacts the victim directly, but impacts our entire community, especially when it occurs in a very public area that we consider safe and that is used by all of our residents and our visitors by our community on a daily basis."

The victim, whose identity is being withheld, recounted that Romero approached her, forcibly took her to the ground, and began assaulting her. Fortunately, she fought back and escaped, managing to find help from a passerby. Police responded promptly and arrested Romero shortly thereafter.

Further investigation revealed Romero’s extensive criminal record, prompting law enforcement to believe there may be additional victims and witnesses.

"What is disturbing is the number of times this individual has been arrested and released. He has continued to re-offend, and his behavior has escalated to a rape in a very public area in our town last night," DeBoard said, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

Governor Youngkin Condemns Local Officials

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin voiced his outrage over the incident and the local handling of Romero's prior cases.

 He criticized Fairfax County prosecutors for allowing Romero to remain free. He posted on X (formerly Twitter), "I am heartsick for this victim and outraged that local Fairfax County officials recklessly release violent illegal immigrants who should have been prosecuted and deported. This is a dereliction of their most basic duty to keep people safe."

Youngkin further declared, "Prioritizing violent illegal immigrants over the safety of Fairfax residents is unacceptable. Virginia is not a sanctuary state. When President Trump takes office, the political posturing will end, and localities will cooperate with ICE to protect Virginians."

Similar arrests are taking place in increasing numbers. The arrest and subsequent revelations have sparked debate over the handling of illegal immigrants with criminal histories in the US.