U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), alongside federal law enforcement partners from the FBI, have arrested a Brazilian fugitive in Massachusetts. The individual, Fernando Antonio Vieira-Martins, 34, was apprehended in Milford on May 1. He is wanted by Brazilian authorities to serve a sentence for murder.
Patricia H. Hyde, acting Field Office Director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston, stated, “Fernando Antonio Vieira-Martins murdered someone in his home country and attempted to subvert justice by fleeing to the United States. He represents a significant hazard to the residents of Massachusetts.” She added that ICE Boston will continue efforts to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing criminal alien threats.
Vieira-Martins was convicted of murder on June 29, 2022, in Brazil and sentenced to 24 years and nine months in prison. Following his conviction, he fled Brazil and entered the United States illegally near Calexico, California, on March 9, 2023.
Brazilian authorities issued an arrest warrant for Vieira-Martins on May 10, 2023, due to his failure to serve his sentence for the murder conviction. Since his arrest earlier this month, ICE has kept him in custody pending removal proceedings.
The public is encouraged to report crimes or suspicious activity by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing an online tip form. Further information about ICE’s mission can be found on X: @EROBoston.
