Phoenix, November 27, 2025
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has placed a detainer on 25-year-old Abel Kai Gblah, a convicted sex offender accused of sexually assaulting a 10-year-old girl at Orangewood Elementary School in Phoenix. Gblah, who entered the school posing as a doctor, was arrested shortly after the incident. The school has since reviewed its security measures to ensure student safety, while the community reacts with shock and concern over the incident.
Phoenix, Arizona – Ice Issues Detainer on Suspect Accused of Assaulting Girl at Phoenix Elementary School
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has placed a detainer on 25-year-old Abel Kai Gblah, a convicted sex offender accused of sexually assaulting a 10-year-old girl at Orangewood Elementary School in Phoenix. The detainer requests that local authorities notify ICE before releasing Gblah, allowing the agency to assume custody if necessary.
Details of the Incident
On November 19, 2025, Gblah entered Orangewood Elementary School through an unlocked interior lobby door, accompanying a tardy student. Posing as a doctor, he led the young girl into an empty classroom, where he sexually assaulted her. The victim managed to push him away, prompting Gblah to flee the scene. He was arrested later that day at his residence, approximately two miles from the school, and booked on charges including sexual conduct with a minor, sexual assault, kidnapping, and probation violation. Gblah is currently being held on a $500,350 bond. The detainer ensures that ICE will be notified if he is released from local custody.
Background on the Suspect
Gblah, originally from Liberia, entered the United States in 2011 and was granted a Green Card for permanent residence. He attended Orangewood Elementary as a child. In 2021, he was convicted of child sex crimes and received a plea deal that resulted in lifetime probation instead of prison time. He is listed as a level 2 sex offender.
School Security Measures
Following the incident, Orangewood Elementary School has reviewed and reinforced its security protocols. Measures include:
- Strengthening procedures for greeting guests and ensuring all visitors sign in.
- Ensuring staff ID badges are worn and clearly visible.
- Reviewing protocols for securing the lobby.
- Retraining staff on interior security, including locking all classrooms.
ICE’s Role and Detainer Process
An ICE detainer is a request for local law enforcement to notify the agency before releasing an individual who may be subject to deportation. In this case, ICE has lodged a detainer with the Maricopa County Jail for Gblah, a “criminal alien from Liberia.” This action allows ICE to assume custody if Gblah is released from local detention.
Community Response
The community has expressed shock and concern over the incident, emphasizing the importance of stringent security measures in schools to protect students. Local authorities continue to investigate the case, and the school is collaborating with law enforcement to ensure the safety of all students and staff.
Legal Proceedings
Gblah waived his court appearance on November 24, 2025, a routine legal option that does not require a defendant to be physically present. This waiver has raised questions about a prior plea deal that dismissed several serious charges he once faced. Advocates have expressed concerns that such plea agreements may result in lighter sentences for dangerous offenders, potentially leaving victims without closure.
Ongoing Investigation
The Phoenix Police Department continues to investigate the incident, gathering information and processing evidence. Authorities are working closely with the school and district officials to review security measures and support the affected community.
Related Incidents
This case highlights broader concerns about school safety and the handling of sex offenders. In a recent incident, ICE agents were involved in a vehicle collision in Mesa while attempting to apprehend a Venezuelan man. Such events underscore the complexities and challenges law enforcement faces in ensuring public safety.
Conclusion
The detainer placed on Abel Kai Gblah reflects ICE’s commitment to addressing public safety concerns related to individuals with criminal backgrounds. The Phoenix community remains vigilant, emphasizing the need for robust security measures in schools to protect students from potential threats.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is an ICE detainer?
An ICE detainer is a request for local law enforcement to notify the agency before releasing an individual who may be subject to deportation. This allows ICE to assume custody if necessary.
What charges is Abel Kai Gblah facing?
Gblah is facing charges including sexual conduct with a minor, sexual assault, kidnapping, and probation violation.
How did Gblah gain access to the school?
Gblah entered the school through an unlocked interior lobby door, accompanying a tardy student.
What security measures is Orangewood Elementary School implementing?
The school is reinforcing procedures for greeting guests, ensuring staff ID badges are visible, reviewing lobby security protocols, and retraining staff on interior security, including locking classrooms.
What concerns have been raised about plea deals in this case?
Advocates have expressed concerns that plea deals may result in lighter sentences for dangerous offenders, potentially leaving victims without closure.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspect’s Name | Abel Kai Gblah |
| Age | 25 |
| Charges | Sexual conduct with a minor, sexual assault, kidnapping, probation violation |
| Location of Incident | Orangewood Elementary School, Phoenix, Arizona |
| Date of Incident | November 19, 2025 |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
