New Bedford Man Wanted for Child Rape Flees, Children Missing

NEW BEDFORD — A New Bedford man wanted on child rape and sexual abuse charges is thought to have fled the area with his two minor children, who are considered missing and in danger.

On Wednesday, the Bristol County District Attorney's Office released a wanted poster for 46-year-old Leon Mejia, also known as Leon Mejia-Vincente, along with images of his two children.

Mejia is a citizen of Guatemala who was living in New Bedford until recently with his children, 17-year-old daughter Petronila Mejia-Saquic (called Marta Saquic) and 5-year-old son Hector Mejia-Saquic.

Get our free mobile app

According to the D.A.'s office, since the arrest warrant was issued, Mejia is believed to have fled the New Bedford area.

His children's whereabouts are currently unknown and the children are considered endangered, the office stated.

New Bedford police are seeking the public’s help in catching the suspect and finding his children as soon as possible.

Anyone with any information is urged to call the Massachusetts State Police 24-hour fugitive line at (800) KAPTURE or (800) 527-8873, or New Bedford Police Det. Sasha Vincente at (508) 971-8569.

Leon Mejia Wanted Poster