SCSO arrests Las Vegas fugitive wanted for child rape

RIO RANCHO — The Sandoval County Sheriff's Office arrested a fugitive from Las Vegas, New Mexico, in the Rio Rancho Estates area Feb. 13.

SCSO posted about the arrest of Jonas Romero on social media.

"In the early morning hours of February 13, 2026, the Sandoval County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit received information that a wanted fugitive was hiding in Rio Rancho, New Mexico," the post reads.

Romero, 37, of Albuquerque, was wanted for child rape in Las Vegas, New Mexico. The victim was younger than 13, according to an affidavit for arrest warrant filed in the 4th Judicial District Court. However, Romero's involvement included an alleged sex trafficking case in which a suspect, John David Lee Jr., 43, allegedly trafficked his children to men. Romero was one of the men who allegedly criminally sexually penetrated them.

Lee Jr. was charged with two counts of trafficking.

Romero allegedly raped a young girl who was 17 at the time of disclosure but was between the ages of 7 and 14 when the crimes occurred.

Through the course of interviews with the victims, FBI officers learned that Lee Jr., who identified as "King Tat," and Romero, who identified as "Yung Tat", were aspiring rap artists. Officers found an article in the Las Vegas Optic with an interview of Romero where he talked about rap in Las Vegas. Due to this, the officers determined Romero and Lee Jr. were friends at the time of the crimes.

"The Sandoval County Sheriff’s Office will not tolerate fugitives hiding within our county. We will continue to work alongside our local, state, and federal partners to locate, pursue, and apprehend individuals who believe they can evade accountability," the post states.

"Those who prey on children should understand one thing — we will relentlessly pursue justice to ensure they are held accountable."

SCSO encouraged people who have information regarding fugitives in Sandoval County to contact them.

Lee Jr. could face life in prison if he is convicted. Romero could face 12 or more years if he is convicted.