Cicero, IL – A man wanted in Utah for aggravated kidnapping and aggravated sexual assault was arrested last month in Cook County, Illinois, according to the Cook County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities say John Banuelos, 40, of Summit, Illinois, was taken into custody on Oct. 17 after deputies and U.S. Marshals tracked him to a fast-food restaurant near 29th Street and Cicero Avenue. The arrest followed a Salt Lake County warrant issued Oct. 1 for the alleged crimes.
According to the sheriff’s office, officers saw Banuelos entering the restaurant, then leaving and getting into a rideshare vehicle. Deputies stopped the car, identified Banuelos, and took him into custody without incident. The driver, confirmed to be a rideshare worker, was released at the scene.
Officials said Banuelos had previously faced charges in connection with the Jan. 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot, though that case was dismissed in early 2023 following presidential pardons for several defendants involved.
Banuelos remains held at Cook County Jail pending extradition to Utah, where prosecutors are expected to pursue the latest charges. Authorities remind the public that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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