Phnom Penh – Cambodian police have detained an American man wanted in the United States for sexual offences against a minor, ending his attempt to evade justice abroad.

Authorities confirmed that Michael John Howard Ramirez was arrested in the capital after fleeing sentencing in Ohio. Acting on orders from National Police Commissioner-General Sar Thet, the Department of Countering Technology Crime worked with the US Embassy’s International Crime Investigation Unit to track him down.

Ramirez’s criminal history stretches back more than a decade. In 2015, he was implicated in the pregnancy of a 14‑year‑old girl. When the victim later moved to North Carolina, Ramirez pursued her to demand custody of the child. A DNA test used in the custody case was handed to Ohio police, leading to his arrest and a one‑year prison sentence for unlawful sex with a minor.

After serving his sentence under supervision, Ramirez reoffended. In March 2024, a court in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, convicted him of attempted unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, a fifth‑degree felony. Rather than face sentencing, he fled to Cambodia.

His presence in Phnom Penh came to light after he appeared online, prompting investigators to intensify their search. Police raided his location and detained him without incident.

Officials said legal procedures are now being finalised to hand Ramirez over to the US Embassy. He is expected to be deported to the United States to serve his prison term.

The case highlights the close cooperation between Cambodian authorities and US law enforcement in tackling transnational crime. It also underscores how fugitives attempting to hide abroad can be tracked and returned to face justice.

-2026-05-08

There is a big difference between Minor Sex Crimes and Sex Crimes Against Minors. You need an editor.