In a shocking case that has reignited debate over Illinois’ SAFE-T Act, Jose Luis Mendoza-Gonzalez, a 52-year-old Mexican national residing in Waukegan, Illinois, was re-arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Chicago on Saturday. He is accused of the gruesome murder and concealment of 37-year-old Megan Bos, whose decapitated body was found inside a bleach-filled container in April.
Mendoza-Gonzalez was initially arrested in April after authorities discovered Bos’s remains in his backyard. She had been reported missing on March 9 and was last seen in February, according to her family. Investigators allege that Bos died at his home, and instead of seeking medical help, Mendoza-Gonzalez broke her phone, stored her body in the basement for two days, and later concealed it in the yard for nearly two months.
Despite the severity of the accusations—concealment of a corpse, abuse of a corpse, and obstruction of justice—Lake County Judge Randie Bruno released Mendoza-Gonzalez under the SAFE-T Act, prompting fierce criticism. DHS called the release “repulsive,” and several public figures expressed alarm.
Antioch Mayor Scott Gartner voiced shock, stating the suspect was freed less than 48 hours after arrest. State Representative Tom Weber questioned whether hiding a body for 51 days and failing to call 911 should truly be considered a non-detainable offense.
Mendoza-Gonzalez now remains in ICE custody. Authorities continue to investigate, with calls growing louder for legal reforms in light of the disturbing case.