Patricia Hyde, acting Field Office Director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in Boston, highlighted the commitment to targeting dangerous offenders in crime-infested neighborhoods.
Sanctuary Policies and Public Safety
Massachusetts has been identified as a sanctuary state, with policies limiting cooperation with ICE detainers. This stance has led to the release of individuals accused of serious crimes, including child rape, before ICE could apprehend them.
Local news investigations in Boston have uncovered instances where courts set low bail for non-citizens charged with such offenses, allowing their release before ICE intervention.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu has faced criticism for reinforcing the city’s sanctuary policies. In a pro-immigrant speech, she reiterated Boston’s refusal to cooperate with ICE operations, asserting support for immigrant communities.
Critics argue that these policies jeopardize public safety by allowing dangerous individuals to remain in the community.
Houston Operation: A Parallel Crackdown
In a similar vein, a week-long operation in the Houston area resulted in the arrest of 646 individuals, including 543 with criminal charges or convictions.
