Staff Report
Elmore County, AL
Yordy Noe Centeno-Melchor, 31, is currently being held in the Elmore County Jail following an attempted kidnapping of a minor on New Year’s Eve in Holtville. The suspect, who has been deported five times previously, faced Elmore County District Judge Glenn Goggans earlier today.
Prosecutor Josh Cochran argued for a higher bond and requested that Centeno-Melchor not be turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
“He attempted to abduct a minor, so he is a threat to others, and he has been deported five times and continues to return,” said Cochran. “Who’s to say he won’t return again if deported or that he won’t flee if released?”
Judge Goggans agreed with the prosecution, setting a $100,000 cash bond for Centeno-Melchor. Additionally, the judge placed a hold on the suspect, preventing his deportation before facing charges in Alabama.
Elmore County District Attorney CJ Robinson reinforced the decision, emphasizing Alabama’s tough stance on crime involving undocumented immigrants. “My policy on immigration is that they can have them when they finish their sentence in an Alabama prison. And we won’t apologize to anyone about it,” said Robinson.
Centeno-Melchor was also issued a no-contact order, prohibiting any communication with the victim.
The case remains under investigation, and officials continue to emphasize their commitment to ensuring public safety.
