BI-FSU arrests American man wanted in Massachusetts for assault

DAVAO CITY— The Bureau of Immigration (BI), under the directive of President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. to strengthen cooperation with foreign law enforcement agencies and ensure that the Philippines does not become a refuge for fugitives, arrested an American national wanted in the United States for alleged assault offenses.

The BI Fugitive Search Unit (FSU), in coordination with the U.S. goverment, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Regional Field Unit 11, Police Station 18 of the Davao City Police Office, and government intelligence forces, apprehended James Charles Davis, 53, on evening of August 5 at a condominium unit along J.P. Laurel Avenue, Barangay 20-B Poblacion, Davao City.

The operation followed a request from the US government for BI assistance concerning Davis, who is the subject of an arrest warrant issued by a Massachusetts trial court earlier this year. He is wanted in connection with two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon and one count of assault, under Massachusetts law.

BI records showed that Davis entered the Philippines on March 4 as a tourist. Verification further showed that he had no subsequent record of visa extension or conversion, making him an overstaying foreign national.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the arrest demonstrates the Bureau’s commitment to working closely with international law enforcement partners to locate foreign fugitives and enforce Philippine immigration laws.

“The Philippines will not be a safe haven for fugitives trying to evade justice in their home countries. When foreign law enforcement partners provide credible information, the BI will act decisively, locate the subject, and ensure that our immigration laws are fully enforced,” Viado said.

Davis was temporarily placed under the custody of Police Station 18 of the Davao City Police Office pending his transfer to Manila. #