Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recently announced the arrest of a Colombian illegal immigrant accused of raping a minor in Massachusetts. The suspect, who remains unnamed, was apprehended in Lynn, Massachusetts, in January for the alleged rape and indecent assault and battery of a minor over 14 years old.
Despite ICE's request to hold the suspect, local authorities released him after he was initially stopped entering the U.S. illegally in July 2022. The Colombian national was then enrolled in the Alternatives to Detention (ATD) program and given a notice to appear in court by Border Patrol.
ICE's Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) lodged an immigration detainer with Lynn District Court following the suspect's arrest. However, the Essex County Sheriff's Office did not honor the detainer, leading to the suspect's release from state custody.
It wasn't until March 28 that the Colombian national was re-arrested and is currently in federal custody pending removal proceedings. ERO Boston Field Office Director Todd Lyons condemned the alleged crime, stating, 'This unlawfully present Colombian national stands accused of a horrific crime. There are few crimes more disturbing than the sexual assault of a child.'
ICE agents have expressed frustration with 'sanctuary' policies that prevent law enforcement from cooperating with ICE detainers. The Biden White House has urged cities and jurisdictions to collaborate with federal authorities in apprehending and removing criminal illegal immigrants.
ICE's Boston ERO unit recently made multiple arrests, including the Colombian national, other alleged child rapists, and a member of the MS-13 gang. The agency remains committed to prioritizing public safety by removing unlawfully present individuals who pose a risk to communities.
The White House emphasized the importance of local law enforcement's support in sharing information about individuals who could threaten public safety with ICE. Cooperation between local jurisdictions and federal authorities is crucial in addressing security concerns and ensuring the safety of communities.
