U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has arrested a Brazilian national, Willian Robert Vasconcelos-Dos Santos, in Falmouth, Massachusetts. The 21-year-old is charged with the rape of a Massachusetts resident. The arrest took place on January 21 after the Falmouth District Court honored an ICE immigration detainer.
Patricia H. Hyde, acting Field Office Director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in Boston, commented on the case: "Willian Robert Vasconcelos-Dos Santos is charged with horrifically victimizing a Massachusetts resident and represents a significant threat to the residents of our communities." She expressed gratitude to the Falmouth District Court for allowing ICE to take custody of Vasconcelos safely in a jail cell. Hyde also stated that "ICE Boston will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing illegal alien offenders from our New England communities."
Vasconcelos was initially apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol agents near San Diego on April 10, 2024, after illegally entering the United States. He was served with a notice to appear before a Department of Justice immigration judge and released under an order of recognizance.
The Falmouth Police Department arrested him on January 20, 2025, charging him with rape. Following this arrest, ICE lodged an immigration detainer against him with the Falmouth District Court.
On January 21, Vasconcelos was released into ICE custody and served with a notice of custody determination upon his arrest. He remains in ICE custody as proceedings continue.
ICE encourages members of the public to report crimes or suspicious activities by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or filling out an online tip form.
Further information about ICE's mission to enhance public safety in New England can be found on their social media platform X: @EROBoston.
