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ICE Arrests Haitian Gang Member in Boston on Multiple Charges
In a significant enforcement action, ICE officers in Boston apprehended a member of a Haitian street gang, identified as Wisteguens Jean Quely Charles, who has a lengthy criminal history and is in the U.S. unlawfully.
On January 22, 2024, the 25-year-old Charles was taken into custody following 17 separate convictions that include serious offenses such as drug trafficking, weapon possession, and assault.
“Mr. Charles is illegally present in the United States and has consistently violated our laws, which poses a significant threat to the safety of Massachusetts residents,” stated Patricia H. Hyde, the acting Field Office Director. “ERO Boston is committed to protecting our communities from individuals who engage in criminal activities.”
According to ICE officials, Charles lawfully entered the United States on July 13, 2013, in Miami, Florida, but subsequently violated the terms of his admission, leading to his unlawful status.
His criminal record spans from August 16, 2022, to August 14, 2024, with charges that include possession and distribution of controlled substances, carrying a dangerous weapon (brass knuckles), unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and resisting arrest.
ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) encountered Charles on April 15, 2023, during one of his arrests. Following this, they issued an immigration detainer to the Norfolk House of Correction in Massachusetts. Unfortunately, the facility released him on October 20, 2023, without honoring the detainer, according to ICE’s report.
The Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office indicated that ICE was informed prior to Charles’s release. Sheriff Patrick McDermott emphasized, “It is our responsibility to adhere to due process and cannot detain an individual beyond their legal confinement period. We are fully compliant within our authority and appreciate efforts from ICE and other law enforcement agencies to ensure community safety.”
Currently, ICE has issued a Notice to Appear before an immigration judge to address Charles’s legal status, and he remains in their custody.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns related to public safety, immigration enforcement, and the complexities involved when multiple legal frameworks intersect within enforcement actions. The situation is developing, and further updates will be provided as they become available.
Source
www.yahoo.com