Ghana national held in New York, faces extradition over felony charges

A 46-year-old Ghanaian national has been arrested by United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Rainbow Bridge crossing in Niagara Falls, New York, after authorities discovered he was wanted on a felony warrant issued in Jersey City, New Jersey.

The suspect, identified as Patrick Fiati, was stopped by CBP officers on November 23, 2025, while using the pedestrian lane at the Port of Buffalo. According to officials, he initially stated that he was travelling to visit friends in Canada but later turned back and re-entered the United States. 

During the routine inspection that followed, officers found a National Crime Information Center match linking him to an active arrest warrant.

The CBP in a statement on its website, confirmed that the warrant from Jersey City was for intimidation, stalking and felony criminal sexual contact. 

The Acting Area Port Director, Sharon Swiatek commended the officers involved and stressed the agency’s responsibility in identifying individuals wanted for serious offences. 

“Our vigilant officers acted swiftly to ensure the safety of the travelling public and conducted a thorough investigation, confirming the warrant and coordinating with local law enforcement,” she said. “CBP plays a critical role in safeguarding our communities by identifying and intercepting individuals wanted for serious crimes.”

Following verification of the warrant, Fiati was handed over to the Niagara Falls Police Department as a fugitive from justice. He is currently being held by the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office as he awaits extradition to New Jersey to face the charges.

Authorities emphasised that the charges remain allegations and that Fiati is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.