A witness video captured a group of NYPD officers swarming Christian Geovanny Inga-Landi, a 25-year-old Ecuadorian illegal immigrant, who was accused of raping a girl in a park at knife point. Inga-Landi appeared bloody and shirtless in the video, as he was dragged out from under a car after a group of New Yorkers cornered him and made a citizen’s arrest. The community recognized Inga-Landi from a wanted poster and the shocking attack in which he allegedly forced two 13-year-olds, a boy and a girl, into the woods at Kissena Park with a machete-like knife. Once hidden in the brush, police claim he tied the children’s wrists together, raped the girl, and stole their cellphones before escaping.
New Yorkers were galvanized by the heinous attack and were on the lookout for Inga-Landi as soon as the NYPD obtained and released surveillance images showing his face. Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny stated that many community members provided tips identifying the perpetrator, and they saw him out on the street. Witness reports revealed that at least 10 neighborhood people attempted to detain Inga-Landi until the police arrived. Two individuals, identified as Angela Sauretti, 23, and Jeffrey Flores, 24, were highlighted for their efforts in restraining the suspect. Inga-Landi was eventually apprehended with the help of residents, including a 67-year-old woman named Isabel Caizado and Daniel Ramos, after he tried to fight off the good Samaritans and suffered minor injuries.
Inga-Landi had entered the U.S. illegally through Eagle Pass, Texas, in 2021. Despite being captured and released, he went on to commit several low-level offenses, such as subway fare jumping and public drinking. He was also involved in a domestic violence incident where charges were not filed, as well as an unspecified arrest in Texas. According to authorities, Inga-Landi faces multiple charges, including rape, kidnapping, and endangering the welfare of a child. He was due back in court following the slew of crimes he was accused of, which sparked outrage among the community and law enforcement in New York.
The neighborhood residents who assisted in detaining Inga-Landi recounted their actions, explaining how they had spotted him at a store where he frequently visited and decided to confront him. They were commended for their bravery and quick thinking in restraining the suspect until the police arrived. The swift response of the community members and the collaboration with law enforcement officers resulted in the apprehension of Inga-Landi, who now faces severe legal consequences for his alleged crimes. The incident highlighted the importance of community vigilance and cooperation in addressing crimes and protecting vulnerable individuals from harm.
Inga-Landi’s arrest and the shocking details of the crime he is accused of committing underscored the need for effective immigration policies and law enforcement measures to address individuals who engage in criminal activities. His case raised concerns about the risks posed by illegal immigration and the potential threats to public safety when offenders exploit vulnerabilities in the system. The courage and vigilance displayed by the New Yorkers who intervened in the situation served as a reminder of the importance of community engagement in promoting safety and justice for all residents. As the legal process unfolds, the case of Inga-Landi reflects broader issues concerning immigration, crime prevention, and the collaborative efforts needed to address complex challenges in society.
