According to ICE, Zhitnichenko, 41, arrived in the United States on March 21, 2023, as a participant in the Humanitarian Stay Program.
Law enforcement officials said that in October 2023, Ukrainian authorities issued a warrant for his arrest for the possible attempted murder of the head of a police unit using an explosive device, as well as for possession and distribution of drugs, racketeering and participation in organized crime.
“Through close collaboration with domestic and international partners, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) was able to bring to justice a dangerous fugitive who attempted to evade justice for serious crimes,” said HSI Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan, ICE said.
Law enforcement noted that Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Acting Director Temmy Maric in Buffalo emphasized that foreign criminals cannot use U.S. immigration laws to avoid prosecution in their home countries, and those who abuse U.S. humanitarian password programs will be held accountable.
According to ICE, after his arrest, Zhitnichenko was taken to the Federal Detention Center in Buffalo. He will remain in ICE custody until his deportation proceedings are completed.
