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ICE Operation in Massachusetts Leads to 370 Arrests, Reignites Sanctuary Policy Debate

The five-day operation targeted individuals with serious criminal charges, highlighting tensions between federal immigration enforcement and local sanctuary policies.

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U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other federal agents arrested around 370 illegal immigrants in Boston and wider Massachusetts between March 18 and 23, 2025.
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Overview

  • Federal agents arrested 370 individuals in Massachusetts, including gang members, child sexual predators, and foreign fugitives wanted for murder, during a five-day operation from March 18 to 23, 2025.
  • The operation also resulted in the seizure of 44 kilograms of methamphetamines, five kilograms of fentanyl, 1.2 kilograms of cocaine, and three firearms.
  • Critics of Massachusetts' sanctuary policies argue that low bail amounts and the refusal to honor ICE detainers have enabled the release of dangerous individuals, including those accused of child rape.
  • Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and Governor Maura Healey defended sanctuary policies, emphasizing public safety and immigrant protections, while federal officials, including Tom Homan, criticized these practices as endangering communities.
  • The operation underscores ongoing national tensions over sanctuary policies, with the Trump administration prioritizing the removal of high-risk offenders under its 'worst first' strategy.