An American fugitive facing sex-related offenses in the United States was arrested in Tanza, Cavite earlier this month, the Bureau of Immigration said.
William Joseph Sullivan, 74, was apprehended on August 19 during an early morning operation by the BI’s Fugitive Search Unit.
He is wanted in the United States for violating the conditions of his supervised release, with underlying charges related to criminal sexual conduct.
The US government sought the BI’s assistance in tracking him down after the Minnesota Department of Corrections issued an arrest warrant in April 2026.
Sullivan arrived in the Philippines earlier this year and was admitted as a temporary visitor.
“Foreign nationals who come to the Philippines must understand that our country is not a refuge for fugitives, particularly those accused or convicted of crimes involving the sexual exploitation or abuse of others,” BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said.
“Our Fugitive Search Unit and other arresting units will continue to work closely with our international and local law enforcement partners to identify, locate, and apprehend foreign nationals who pose a threat to our communities,” he added.
He cited the BI’s #ShieldKids campaign, which seeks to strengthen the BI’s efforts to protect children and other vulnerable persons from foreign sexual predators and other individuals who may exploit the Philippines as a destination for criminal activities.
“The message is clear: the BI will prioritize the protection of people, especially children and vulnerable members of our communities, from foreign sexual predators,” Viado said.
He added: “We will use every lawful means available and pursue strong coordination with our partners to make sure these individuals are identified and dealt with accordingly.”
Sullivan was brought to the BI for booking and documentation and will be held at the BI warden’s facility for appropriate proceedings.