By admin 
SURPRISE, AZ (AZFamily) — A Valley man who police said sexually assaulted a teen over several months is in custody after initially fleeing to the United Kingdom to avoid charges.
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Michael Munufie, 40, was captured by the United States Marshals Service after being detained in the U.K. On Aug. 28, he returned to the U.S., where Surprise detectives took him into custody.
“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,” said U.S. Marshal Van Bayless. “We hope his return provides the victim and her family with an important step toward justice and healing.”
Munufie is facing three counts of sexual misconduct with a minor and three counts of sexual abuse. He is being held on a $150,000 cash-only bond.
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“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.”
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