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ICE Agents Detain Guatemalan Asylum Seeker in Case of Mistaken Identity

Juan Francisco-Mendez remains in custody after ICE agents forcibly detained him, claiming minimum necessary force was used despite video evidence showing aggressive tactics.

David Gomez along with his mother (L) and son (R)
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Widespread use of aggressive arrest tactics by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents across the country has raised questions about the legality of some operations. The Trump administration has also threatened cities and states with sanctuary laws. (AP file/Alex Brandon)
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Overview

  • Juan Francisco-Mendez, a Guatemalan national awaiting asylum, was detained by ICE agents in New Bedford, Massachusetts, after they smashed his car window during a mistaken identity operation.
  • The incident, captured on video by his wife, Marilu Domingo Ortiz, shows ICE agents forcibly removing him from the car despite his pending asylum application and lack of a criminal record.
  • ICE has defended the arrest, stating Francisco-Mendez resisted apprehension and that agents used the minimum amount of force necessary, though local leaders and activists have criticized the tactics as excessive.
  • Francisco-Mendez is currently being held in a facility in Dover, New Hampshire, with no formal charges disclosed, prompting his family and attorney to demand answers from ICE.
  • New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell has questioned ICE's lack of coordination with local authorities and called for transparency regarding the agency's enforcement practices.