Full Breakdown
ICE Lodges Detainer Against Egyptian National Accused of Rape
1/31/2026, 1:56:52 PM
Incident Overview
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has lodged an arrest detainer against Mena Mohsen Farez Nmn Awad, a 31-year-old Egyptian national accused of raping a 16-year-old girl in Nashville, Tennessee, on New Year’s Eve. Awad allegedly broke into the victim's apartment while she was asleep next to her nephew and assaulted her at gunpoint. The victim managed to escape and reported the incident to her family, leading to Awad's arrest in Louisville, Kentucky, on January 16, 2023.
Background on the Accused
Awad entered the United States in 2017 through the Diversity Visa program, which has been criticized for allowing individuals with criminal backgrounds to immigrate. He has a documented history of violence, including previous charges for domestic violence, intimidation, and weapon possession. Following his arrest, he was charged with aggravated rape, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and aggravated burglary.
Official Statements & Responses
Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin criticized the Diversity Visa program, stating, "Horrendous immigration policies allowed this monster into our country and made victims of children and families." She emphasized that the detainer was necessary to prevent Awad from being released and potentially harming more children. Secretary Kristi Noem has since paused the Diversity Lottery program and called for its permanent termination, citing concerns over public safety.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the Diversity Visa program argue that it poses risks by allowing individuals with criminal histories to enter the country. McLaughlin's statements reflect a broader concern among some officials regarding immigration policies that they believe fail to adequately protect American citizens from violent offenders.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the details surrounding Awad's criminal history and the circumstances of the alleged assault are clear, there is limited information on the broader implications of his case on immigration policy. Additionally, the specifics of his legal status following previous convictions remain unclear.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Horrendous immigration policies allowed this monster into our country and made victims of children and families,” — Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary, Department of Homeland Security
- “This child rapist was allowed into our country by the Diversity Lottery program.” — Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary, Department of Homeland Security
What's Next
Awad is currently held at the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office in Nashville, awaiting further legal proceedings. The case has reignited discussions about immigration reform and the effectiveness of current policies in safeguarding communities from violent crimes committed by undocumented immigrants.
