ICE Operation in Massachusetts Leads to Nearly 400 Arrests, Including Dangerous Criminal Offenders
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency (ICE) recently conducted a large-scale operation in Massachusetts, resulting in the arrest of almost 400 individuals. More than 200 of these arrests were of illegal immigrants who had serious criminal convictions or charges. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde expressed satisfaction with the operation, stating that it has made the Commonwealth a safer place for its residents.
Majority of Arrested Illegal Immigrants Have Significant Criminal Backgrounds
The operation, which took place from March 18 to March 23, targeted the Boston area and led to the apprehension of 370 illegal immigrants. Out of these, 205 had significant criminal convictions or charges. Shockingly, six of the arrested individuals were facing charges or convictions for serious crimes such as murder, drug trafficking, organized crime, and money laundering.
Targeting Dangerous Criminal Alien Offenders
The operation specifically aimed to capture “egregious criminal alien offenders,” including members of notorious gangs like MS-13 and Tren de Aragua who were operating in and around Boston. Despite Boston being a sanctuary city, where local cooperation with federal immigration authorities is limited, ICE agents, along with personnel from various federal agencies, such as the FBI, DEA, and U.S. Marshals Service, carried out the raids.
Boston Mayor Faces Criticism for Sanctuary City Policies
Boston’s Democratic Mayor, Michelle Wu, has faced criticism for her support of sanctuary city policies. In her State of the City address last week, she vowed to continue protecting illegal immigrants in the city, stating, “No one tells Boston how to take care of our own, not kings, and not presidents who think they are kings. Boston was born facing down bullies.” However, these recent arrests have raised questions about the effectiveness of these policies in ensuring public safety.
Joint Efforts to Safeguard Public Safety
ICE agents were not alone in this operation; they were joined by personnel from various federal agencies, including the FBI, DEA, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, ATF, U.S. Marshals Service, and DSS. The collaboration between these agencies highlights the importance of safeguarding the integrity of the immigration and citizenship process, as well as protecting national security.
Criminals Removed and Contraband Seized
Aside from the arrests, federal authorities seized a significant amount of illegal substances during the operation. This included approximately 44 kilograms of methamphetamines, five kilograms of fentanyl, and 1.2 kilograms of cocaine. The confiscation of these drugs highlights the impact of transnational criminal organizations and dangerous criminal gangs on the American public.
Commitment to Making Communities Safer
ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde emphasized the commitment of ICE and its federal law enforcement partners to protecting the homeland and making communities safer. By locating and arresting criminal alien offenders, dismantling criminal organizations, and targeting dangerous gangs, they aim to eradicate threats to public safety and national security.
Boston Mayor’s Office Yet to Comment
As of now, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu’s office has not responded to requests for comment regarding the recent operation and the criticism of sanctuary city policies.
