El Paso Standard

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) with support from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) detained a 32-year-old Dominican national in Worcester, Massachusetts. The arrest occurred on February 25, following a conviction of the individual, Moises Ricardo Peralta-Matos, for a sex crime against a Massachusetts resident.

Patricia H. Hyde, the acting Field Office Director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations, highlighted the severity of the situation: “Moises Ricardo Peralta-Matos victimized a member of our Massachusetts community and has subsequently been charged with further violent behavior. He clearly presents a threat to the residents here," she stated. "We will not tolerate such threats to our neighborhoods. ICE Boston will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing criminal alien threats from New England.”

Peralta entered the United States legally on May 1, 2003, in New York City, but later violated the conditions of his lawful stay. His criminal record includes a conviction for compulsory insurance violation on October 5, 2018, with a related fine, and a conviction for indecent assault and battery on December 16, 2024, for which he received a suspended sentence after being sentenced to 545 days in prison.

Additionally, Peralta faced arraignment on January 13 for assault and battery on a family household member.

The arrest by ICE, FBI, and ATF officers led to Peralta being served with a notice to appear before a U.S. Department of Justice immigration judge.

Public members are encouraged to report any crimes or suspicious activities by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or through the online tip form.

Find further details about ICE's public safety efforts on their X account: @EROBoston.