U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), along with federal law enforcement partners, conducted an operation in Massachusetts from March 18 to 23, resulting in the arrest of 370 individuals. The operation focused on transnational organized crime, gangs, and serious offenders.
Patricia H. Hyde, acting Field Office Director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in Boston, stated that the operation aimed at making communities safer by targeting dangerous alien offenders. “The Commonwealth is a safer place for our residents to live and work because ICE and our federal law enforcement partners arrested hundreds of alien offenders and removed them from the streets of Massachusetts,” she said.
The operation targeted criminal organizations such as MS-13, Tren de Aragua, Trinitarios, and 18th Street gangs. Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of ICE Homeland Security Investigations New England, emphasized a comprehensive approach to community safety: “This week’s enhanced enforcement operations with our partners from the FBI, DEA, ATF, DSS and CBP prove that we are taking a whole of government approach to protecting our communities.”
Leah B. Foley, U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts remarked on the importance of prosecuting those who violate immigration laws: “Everyone should agree that we cannot and will not tolerate individuals who not only violate our immigration laws but then commit crimes that endanger our communities.”
Of those arrested, 205 had significant criminal convictions or charges. Six were foreign fugitives facing serious charges such as murder and drug trafficking.
Jodi Cohen from the FBI Boston Division noted the significance of maintaining public safety: “Safeguarding the integrity of the immigration and citizenship process is critical… It’s a direct threat to public safety and our national security.”
During this operation, authorities seized drugs including methamphetamines and fentanyl as well as firearms. Stephen Belleau from DEA New England highlighted their focus on violent criminal aliens responsible for drug distribution.
Local jurisdictions’ refusal to honor immigration detainer requests led to many arrests being made at large within communities.
James M. Ferguson from ATF Boston emphasized collaboration among agencies: “The successful outcome of this immigration enforcement operation demonstrates the dedication and collaboration of our law enforcement partners.”
Matthew O’Brien from Diplomatic Security Service reiterated their commitment to reducing illegal immigration through coordinated efforts with international partners.
Several notable arrests included individuals charged with serious offenses ranging from drug trafficking to homicide across various locations in Massachusetts.
Federal agencies involved included offices from FBI Boston Division, DEA New England Field Division, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), ATF Boston Field Division among others.
The public is encouraged to report crimes or suspicious activities through designated hotlines or online forms provided by ICE.
