Source: Palm Beach County Sheriff's Department
Source: United States Federal Government
Source: Weill Cornell Medicine
In a deeply disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the New York community, federal immigration authorities have arrested a woman accused of enabling her husband to sexually abuse her daughter. On May 1, 2025, Marcia Lorena Bueno Guartatanga, a 38-year-old Ecuadorian national living in the U.S. unlawfully, was taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers during a targeted operation in Cortlandt, New York.
The arrest stems from a 2022 conviction in White Plains, where Bueno was found guilty of acting in a manner injurious to a child and hindering prosecution. Prosecutors say she knowingly allowed her husband to sexually abuse her daughter, then attempted to obstruct the legal process. She served 95 days in jail and was placed on three years of probation for her role.
ICE confirmed that Bueno entered the country illegally, at an unknown date and location, without proper inspection by immigration authorities. Following her criminal conviction, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) in New York City obtained a warrant of arrest for immigration violations under the Immigration and Nationality Act.
She is currently being held in ICE detention and will face removal proceedings. Acting Field Office Director William P. Joyce strongly condemned the crime, stating:
“What makes this situation even more unfathomable is the mother’s role in the victimization of her daughter. Whether a perpetrator, conspirator, or facilitator — depraved, predatory actions against children will not be tolerated.”
Cases like this are a tragic reminder that child sexual abuse can come not only from perpetrators but also from adults who fail to protect. When a parent or guardian enables abuse, the psychological damage inflicted on the child can be even more severe. Victims may feel isolated, betrayed, and powerless.
At Survivors of Abuse NY, we believe no child should ever be subjected to such horrific circumstances. Our mission is to hold all responsible parties accountable — including those who allow abuse to occur or obstruct justice.
Although Bueno’s criminal case has concluded, the broader legal journey may continue through civil lawsuits, which can provide financial compensation and emotional closure for survivors. Victims have the right to seek justice not only from the direct abuser but also from those who enabled the abuse — whether through silence, denial, or active concealment.
If you or someone you know has suffered abuse from a trusted adult or guardian, know that help is available. An experienced attorney can help investigate your case, file civil claims, and pursue accountability from all parties involved.
Thomas Giuffra, Esq., a leading New York sexual abuse attorney, has built a reputation for standing with survivors and fighting aggressively for their rights. With experience in both high-profile and deeply personal abuse cases, Mr. Giuffra and the team at Survivors of Abuse NY provide compassionate, confidential support for victims throughout their legal journey.
We understand how devastating these cases can be — and how vital it is to feel supported every step of the way.
If you or your child has been impacted by sexual abuse or enabling neglect, don’t wait. Reach out today for a free, no-obligation consultation with a legal team that puts your safety and justice first.
Call Thomas Giuffra, Esq. – The Abuse Lawyer NY at (646) 413-6394
Visit us online at https://survivorsofabuseny.com
Disclaimer: All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty. This article is based on publicly available law enforcement statements and news reports and is intended for informational purposes only.
Source:
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