On February 17, 2026, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed the detention of Vodela Yashaswi Kottapalli in New Jersey. He is an Indian national and, according to authorities, an undocumented immigrant.
ICE said he is facing multiple criminal charges. He will remain in immigration custody while legal and removal proceedings continue.
What Charges Is He Facing?
According to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Vodela Yashaswi Kottapalli faces the following pending charges:
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Alleged sexual assault of a child under 13
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Larceny related to shoplifting
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Public disorder
Officials have not shared the exact date of his arrest or the county where the case was filed. They also did not provide further details about the alleged incidents.
Authorities stressed that these charges are allegations at this stage. The case will be decided in court.
What Happens Next?
Under US law, non-citizens accused of serious crimes can be held in immigration custody while their criminal cases move through the courts.
ICE stated that Vodela Yashaswi Kottapalli will remain detained pending removal proceedings. A final decision will depend on the outcome of the legal process.
Rise In Deportations Of Indian Nationals
His detention comes at a time when deportations of Indian nationals from the United States have increased.
The Indian government recently informed Parliament that more than 3,800 Indians were deported from the US in 2025. Officials said the deportations followed nationality verification and coordination between both countries.
However, authorities have not shared how many of those deportations were linked to criminal charges and how many were based only on immigration violations.
Important Note
Criminal charges are not proof of guilt. The case involving Vodela Yashaswi Kottapalli will be resolved through the judicial system.
