Healey outraged as ICE detains Massachusetts teen heading to volleyball practice
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey took to social media on Sunday evening to demand answers after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents arrested a high school student, Marcelo Gomes, on his way to volleyball practice over the weekend. Gomes, an 18-year-old junior at Milford High School in Milford, Massachusetts, was taken into custody without warning, sparking outrage and concern from local officials and community members.
In her post, Governor Healey expressed her deep disturbance and outrage at the incident, calling for immediate answers from ICE regarding Gomes’ arrest, his current whereabouts, and the protection of his due process rights. She criticized the Trump administration for instilling fear in communities and accused them of making residents less safe through their immigration enforcement tactics.
The community of Milford rallied together in support of Gomes, with hundreds gathering outside of Milford High School to demand his release and an end to what they described as harassment by ICE. U.S. Representative Jake Auchincloss, who represents Milford in Congress, joined the protest and highlighted Gomes’ academic and extracurricular achievements, questioning the administration’s skewed priorities in targeting individuals like him.
Milford School District Superintendent Kevin McIntyre acknowledged that Gomes’ detention was part of a larger pattern of apprehensions in the community. While the district cannot intervene in immigration enforcement, McIntyre pledged to support all students and families, emphasizing their importance as integral members of the community.
The incident cast a shadow over Milford High School’s graduation ceremony, which took place the following morning. Governor Healey expressed her sympathy for the Milford community, acknowledging the somber tone that overshadowed what should have been a day of celebration.
As the community continues to demand answers and justice for Marcelo Gomes, Governor Healey and other local officials are committed to advocating for the rights and safety of all residents, regardless of their immigration status. The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and the impact it has on individuals and communities across the country.
