NANTUCKET, MASS. (WHDH) - A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation on Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard.
Federal agents say they arrested roughly 40 people, who they say were in the U.S. illegally, including an MS-13 gang member and a child sex offender.
A group of men were seen handcuffed on the floor of a boat off of Nantucket.
“I don’t know all the circumstances, but from what I heard were just tailing people who were off to construction sites to a day’s work,” said Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey.
ICE and FBI agents worked together on the two islands Tuesday. They shared images, appearing to be in at least one front yard for an arrest. The Coast Guard also assisted.
In all, ICE says many of those arrested are criminals.
The governor says in this case, she’s only heard of two people with criminal records.
“People are being picked up. We have no information about their circumstance. There have been real questions raised about due process,” said Governor Healey.
The governor says she is all for catching criminals, but she wants more answers from ICE on this operation.
“It’s one thing to go after and target those who have committed crimes who are here unlawfully. It’s concerning when we see moms and dads being ripped away from families. Neighbors, co-workers taken away, like job sites on Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard,” said Healey.
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