U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reports that Operation Patriot 2.0 led to over 1,400 arrests across Massachusetts. ICE operations typically involve targeting individuals involved in serious criminal activities. For this operation, terms like “serious offenders” refer to individuals who have committed crimes that significantly impact public safety, such as violent crimes and major drug offenses. “Transnational crime” involves illegal activities conducted across national borders, often by organized criminal groups.
The operation saw collaboration between ICE’s Boston Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New England. Multiple federal agencies also participated, including the FBI, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS), and the U.S. Marshals Service.
Federal immigration authorities report that more than 600 detainees had extensive criminal records, faced ongoing legal proceedings in the United States, or were subjects of international warrants. The operation targeted transnational criminal groups in Massachusetts and Boston, including MS-13, Tren de Aragua, Trinitarios, and 18th Street.
ICE confirmed six individuals as members of transnational gangs, with additional suspects identified as associates. Local residents have expressed their concerns about the presence of such gangs, with one community leader stating, ‘These groups have brought fear and violence into our neighborhoods, and it’s crucial for our peace of mind that actions are taken to address this issue.’
The operation led to the detention of individuals with international warrants or Interpol Red Notices, including three confirmed or suspected terrorists. Additionally, 277 people remained in the United States despite receiving final removal orders from Justice Department immigration judges.
ICE said many arrests followed releases in cities that did not honor ICE detainers, requiring more field operations across Massachusetts.
Official statements
Acting ICE Director Todd M. Lyons commented on sanctuary policies, stating: “Patriot 2.0 highlighted the effects of sanctuary policies and the importance for local leaders to consider the safety of their residents.” He added: “Every noncitizen arrested in the operation violated U.S. immigration law, and many had criminal records.” In simpler terms, Lyons is emphasizing that sanctuary policies can affect community safety and suggesting that local leaders should prioritize the safety of residents over these policies. He underscores that those arrested were noncitizens who not only broke immigration laws but also included individuals with criminal pasts.
He said, “Local law enforcement released them rather than transfer them to our custody, raising concerns about neighborhood and officer safety. Local authorities have a responsibility to protect their communities; they must address sanctuary policies.”
David Wesling, acting field office director for ERO Boston, emphasized the operation’s effect on public safety: “Massachusetts is safer due to the efforts of ICE and federal partners. Together, we arrested more than 1,400 noncitizens across the Commonwealth, many with criminal records in the United States or abroad.” He detailed the targets: “That includes offenders involved in serious crimes. All were in violation of U.S. immigration law by remaining in Massachusetts.”
Michael J. Krol, special agent in charge of HSI New England, reiterated the mission’s focus: “We continue to work with our federal partners to address serious offenses. Public safety and national security remain priorities.”
From FBI Boston, Ted E. Docks commented: “Operation Patriot 2.0 conveys that individuals present in the country in violation of the law and committing crimes will be subject to law enforcement action. This enforcement led to more than 1,400 arrests, many involving violent offenses. Some individuals had prior removal orders but remained in the country. The FBI supports measures to enforce immigration law and public safety.”
Kevin Neal of the U.S. Marshals Service noted the collaborative efforts: “The results of Operation Patriot 2.0 show that federal cooperation can lead to the arrest of individuals charged with serious crimes. We worked with partners to apprehend those facing allegations such as murder, gang involvement, sexual offenses, and drug-related crimes.”
Leah B. Foley, U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts, provided the legal perspective: “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue its collaboration with law-enforcement partners to identify and prosecute individuals violating federal immigration laws. Enforcement actions aim to address community safety concerns.”
According to ICE, the detained individuals will remain in federal custody pending the conclusion of their removal proceedings or deportation. Possible legal outcomes for those detained include bond hearings, where individuals might be granted temporary release on bond while awaiting court dates. Some may pursue appeals against removal orders, seeking to overturn or delay deportation. Others could face criminal trials if charged with crimes beyond immigration violations. These scenarios depend on individual cases, adding layers of complexity to the legal process.
The agency has not disclosed demographic information regarding the ethnic composition of those apprehended during the series of operations that resulted in more than 1,400 arrests.
No ICE operation was documented in Haitian communities, one of Massachusetts’ largest immigrant groups. However, several Haitian citizens were still taken into custody. Among them, Jordani Joseph was apprehended by ICE in Fall River and faces rape and kidnapping charges. His case was ongoing in Bristol County when he was arrested.
