Ashley Jacobs, Deputy County Manager | Wake County Government
Ashley Jacobs, Deputy County Manager | Wake County Government
The Wake County Sheriff's Office has confirmed the successful extradition of Alder Alfonso Marin-Sotelo to the United States. This follows his arrest by Mexican authorities in May 2023. The office expressed gratitude to the U.S. Department of Justice and all agencies involved in facilitating his return.
Marin-Sotelo was indicted on August 23, 2022, for first-degree murder related to the death of Deputy Ned Byrd on August 11, 2022. Sheriff Willie Rowe commented on the development: “Deputy Byrd was one of our own, and we have never stopped working to ensure justice is served.” He emphasized that the extradition demonstrates effective collaboration among law enforcement at various levels.
Wake County District Attorney Lorrin Freeman stated that Marin-Sotelo's return allows them to proceed with setting a trial date. “We are grateful for the cross-agency collaboration that brought him back to face these charges," she said. Freeman acknowledged the significance of this case for the community and extended thoughts to Deputy Byrd’s family and friends.
The Sheriff’s Office hopes this event provides some closure for those who continue to honor Deputy Byrd’s memory.