Costa Rican authorities arrested a naturalized U.S. citizen born in Jamaica and identified by the surname Harwell after an Interpol Red Notice was issued at the request of U.S. authorities in connection with drug-related charges.

According to the Ministry of Public Security (MSP), Harwell was arrested in a public area near U.S. Embassy facilities in the Pavas District of San José Province. The operation was carried out in coordination with the Migration Police and the U.S. Embassy.

Police reported that Harwell’s tourist visa had expired, leaving him in the country with irregular immigration status at the time of his arrest.

The U.S. Department of Justice in DeKalb County, in the Atlanta metropolitan area of the U.S. State of Georgia, issued an international arrest warrant for Harwell in connection with an alleged incident reported June 24, 2009, authorities said.

Costa Rican authorities arrested Harwell following the issuance of an Interpol Red Notice requesting his immediate detention.

After his arrest, Harwell was transferred to the Migration Apprehension Center in Heredia Province, where he will remain in custody while Costa Rican authorities complete the extradition process to the United States.

Officials declined to provide further details about the case, citing the confidentiality of the ongoing investigation. Authorities said only Harwell’s family members are authorized to request additional information.

According to the U.S. Embassy, American citizens arrested abroad are entitled to consular assistance. Once Costa Rican authorities notify the embassy of an arrest, a U.S. consular officer visits the detainee to check on their well-being, review the circumstances of the arrest and provide information about the local legal system, including a list of attorneys.

At the detainee's request, consular officials may also notify family members or friends, help facilitate the transfer of funds for legal or living expenses, and serve as a liaison with relatives.

However, the embassy notes that consular officers cannot provide legal representation, act as attorneys or intervene to secure the release of detained U.S. citizens.

For Americans serving lengthy prison sentences abroad, consular officers are required to conduct welfare visits at least once every three to four months.

The MSP is responsible for maintaining public order, overseeing the country's police forces and coordinating Costa Rica's national crime-fighting strategies.

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