Antonio 'El Diablo' Riano, one of America's most elusive criminals, has finally been apprehended after two decades.

Daily Mail Online reported that Riano was found hiding as a police officer in his hometown, where he was arrested.

On a seemingly tranquil Thursday in Zapotitlan Palmas, the long arm of the law reached Antonio Riano, ending a 20-year manhunt.

Riano, now 72, had been living undercover as a law enforcement officer in the very community he grew up in. This unexpected role was a shocking revelation, given his notorious past and the grave charges against him.

From a Deadly Confrontation to a Life on the Run

The saga began in 2004 in Hamilton, Ohio, at the Round House Bar, where a heated argument escalated fatally. Riano, amidst a brief yet intense dispute, shot 25-year-old Benjamin Becarra point-blank in the face.

The murder weapon, a Smith & Wesson .38 with two spent rounds, pointed back to a sinister plan premeditated with ammunition bought just 45 minutes prior from a local Walmart.

Police quickly established Riano's identity as the shooter, setting off an international manhunt. Starting in 2005, his face became a regular feature on 'America's Most Wanted, ' marking him as a high-profile fugitive in need of capture.

An Overdue Arrest and Evidence Discovery

The turning point in this prolonged chase came when cooperative efforts between the US Marshals Service, the US Department of Justice, and the Prosecutor's Office investigators led to his capture.

Notably, several false identities and the infamous murder weapon were found at Riano's residence, increasing the evidence against him.

Riano was extradited to the United States after being handed over to US Marshals in Mexico City. His return to American soil was documented as he was taken into custody at Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International Airport.

Statements from Law Enforcement and the Accused

Upon his arrest, Riano made a brief statement, claiming his innocence in the murder of Becarra. Despite his denial, "No, I did not do it," the gravity of his charges remained unaltered.

He also justified his role as a police officer, stating he "wanted to help the people of Mexico," which now tinges with a sense of irony given his fugitive status.

Butler County Prosecutor Michael T. Gmoser highlighted the collaborative nature of this arrest, praising the combined efforts that brought Riano to justice.

Meanwhile, Michael D. Black, US Marshal for the Southern District of Ohio, emphasized the persistence and cooperation of law enforcement agencies that led to the successful capture of a dangerous fugitive.

The Community's Mixed Reactions and Future Proceedings

The community in Zapotitlan Palmas and Hamilton reacted with a mix of shock and relief at the news of Riano's dual life and subsequent capture. Many are still coming to terms with the fact that a wanted murderer was serving as a protector of public safety.

As Riano faces trial, the legal outcomes and implications of this case continue to unfold, keeping public and legal interest firmly riveted on how justice will be served after such a prolonged evasion.

Concluding Reflections

The arrest of Antonio 'El Diablo' Riano closes a long chapter for law enforcement and opens a new one concerning international crime and justice.

His initial escape, years of living undercover, and the collaborative effort to recapture him paint a complex picture of criminal pursuit in the modern age. The case reaffirms the determination of global law enforcement to pursue justice, no matter how long it takes.