Recent arrests of illegal immigrants by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on the picturesque islands of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts have raised concerns among residents and officials.
ICE has conducted a series of operations resulting in the arrest of several individuals accused of serious crimes, including rape and assault against minors.
Arrests on Martha's Vineyard
One of the arrests involved a 24-year-old Brazilian illegal immigrant, Warley Neto, who is facing charges of raping a Massachusetts minor. Despite ICE's detainer requests, Neto was released early from prison and allegedly committed further crimes.
Arrests on Nantucket
On Nantucket, ICE arrested Salvadoran illegal immigrants Bryan Daniel Aldana-Arevalo and Elmer Sola, both charged with multiple sex crimes against children. Another arrest involved Brazilian illegal immigrant Gean Do Amaral Belafronte, accused of indecent assault and battery.
Additionally, Felix Alberto Perez-Gomez, a Guatemalan illegal immigrant, was arrested for a sex crime against a Nantucket resident. He had previously been removed from the U.S. but reentered unlawfully.
Angel Gabriel Deras-Mejia, a Salvadoran illegal immigrant and documented MS-13 member, was also arrested for committing violent crimes in Massachusetts.
Concerns and Response
Residents and officials expressed concerns about the safety of the community, particularly regarding violent offenders among the illegal immigrant population. ICE officials emphasized the importance of prioritizing public safety and removing dangerous noncitizen offenders from New England.
These arrests come amid ongoing debates about sanctuary cities in Massachusetts and the broader immigration policy landscape. A recent report estimated a significant number of illegal and inadmissible migrants residing in the state, with thousands being minors.
Notably, two years ago, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis sent illegal immigrants to Martha's Vineyard as part of a relocation program, citing concerns about sanctuary states and open border policies.
As ICE continues its operations to apprehend individuals accused of serious crimes, the community remains vigilant about ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents on Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard.
