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. ICE reported that Charles Peter Billone, aged 64, had absconded from court after being released on a recognizance 35 years ago. Initially arrested in 1991 on charges of sexual assault and sexual interference, ICE indicated in a recent communication that Billone was wanted in Canada for sexual assault involving a child and had prior convictions for theft, assault, and drug offenses.
Hamilton police revealed in 2014 that Billone had managed to escape capture by assuming a new identity, frustrating law enforcement’s attempts to locate him using conventional methods. According to ICE, Billone is currently in custody awaiting removal proceedings.
Hamilton police spokesperson Jackie Penman informed CBC Hamilton that they have been closely collaborating with the Crown’s office regarding this matter. She clarified that extradition proceedings are not currently in progress.