U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), in collaboration with federal law enforcement agencies, conducted a monthlong operation in Massachusetts resulting in the arrest of nearly 1,500 individuals residing illegally in the United States. The operation, named Operation Patriot, targeted transnational organized crime and serious offenders.
Patricia H. Hyde, acting Field Office Director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston, stated: “The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is a safer place today thanks to the hard work and determination of the men and women of ICE and our federal partners.” She emphasized that many arrested individuals had significant criminal records either domestically or internationally.
Of those apprehended, more than half had substantial criminal convictions or charges. Michael J. Krol from Homeland Security Investigations New England highlighted the seriousness of some cases: “Among those arrested include truly alarming criminals: murderers wanted in their home countries, child predators, and drug traffickers.”
Operation Patriot focused on criminal organizations active around Boston and Massachusetts such as MS-13 and Trinitarios gangs. FBI Boston's Kimberly Milka noted that this was a large-scale effort aimed at habitual lawbreakers who have endangered communities.
Jennifer De La O from U.S. Customs and Border Protection reiterated their commitment to national safety by ensuring all criminal aliens are taken into custody. Many arrests occurred after local jurisdictions did not honor immigration detainer requests.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) also participated actively in these operations. Stephen Belleau from DEA New England remarked on their focus on violent illegal criminals involved in drug trafficking.
Throughout May, several notable arrests were made involving individuals with serious charges ranging from murder to sexual offenses against minors. These include a Salvadoran national wanted for multiple crimes in El Salvador, a Guatemalan national facing charges related to sexual servitude in Boston, among others.
All detainees will remain under ICE custody pending removal proceedings or deportation outcomes.
The public is encouraged to report suspicious activities via phone or online platforms provided by ICE.
