SURPRISE – Surprise Police Department officers have arrested Michael Munufie who fled to the United Kingdom after being accused of repeatedly sexually assaulting a juvenile family member over a period of several months.
According to the Surprise Police Department, very early into the investigation, Munufie fled the United States, initially traveling to Canada before ultimately traveling to the United Kingdom.
Surprise Police detectives referred the case to the United States Marshals Service (USMS) for assistance in locating, apprehending, and returning Munufie to the United States. Working in coordination with law enforcement authorities in the United Kingdom, the USMS assisted in locating Munufie, who was detained by United Kingdom authorities while the legal process for his return to the United States was completed.
On August 28, 2026, Munufie was returned to the United States in the custody of the USMS. Surprise Police detectives took custody of Munufie at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and transported him directly to the Intake, Transfer and Release Jail for booking.
“Our detectives demonstrated tremendous diligence and determination throughout this investigation, never losing sight of their responsibility to seek justice for the victim,” said Surprise Police Chief Evan Becher. “Cases like this also demonstrate how important our partnerships with agencies such as the United States Marshals Service are. Their commitment and ability to work with international law enforcement partners were instrumental in bringing Munufie back to Arizona to face these charges. We are extremely grateful to the US Marshals and everyone who assisted in making his return possible.”
“Michael Munufie is accused of committing horrific crimes against a juvenile family member and then fleeing across international borders to avoid facing justice,” said U.S. Marshal Van Bayless. “This case demonstrates that leaving the United States does not end our pursuit. Through the persistence of our investigators and cooperation with our domestic and international partners, Munufie was located, apprehended, extradited, and returned to Arizona to face the charges against him. We hope his return provides the victim and her family with an important step toward justice and healing.”
Munufie was booked on the following charges:
He is being held on a $150,000 bond.
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