ICE dispels rumors about viral video showing agents smashing window to arrest illegal
After a video showing federal agents smashing a car window to arrest an illegal immigrant went viral online, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is dispelling rumors about both the agent involved and the detainee.
The arrest took place in New Bedford, Massachusetts, on Monday and was carried out by Boston ICE officials. The footage, captured by the detainee’s wife from inside the car, shows two federal agents attempting to speak with two individuals who had locked themselves in the vehicle, claiming they were waiting for their lawyer. When the agents were unable to gain access to the car, they resorted to using a large hammer to break the backseat window and apprehend one of the occupants, a 29-year-old Guatemalan man named Juan Francisco-Mendez.
According to Francisco-Mendez’s lawyer, Ondine Gálvez, he has no criminal history in Massachusetts and is seeking asylum status. Francisco-Mendez’s wife, known as Marilú, stated that the agents “pulled us out violently” and “treated us very harshly.”
The video of the incident quickly spread online, leading to significant controversy. Some individuals even claimed that the agent who smashed the window was a far-right militia member named Lewis Arthur. However, ICE has clarified that the agent involved is a legitimate federal officer and not Arthur.
A spokesperson for ICE explained that Francisco-Mendez resisted apprehension and refused to comply with officers’ instructions, leading to the use of force by the agent. ICE emphasized that their officers are trained to apply the minimum amount of force necessary to ensure the success of the operation and prioritize the safety of officers.
ICE strongly refuted the rumors circulating on social media, denying that they employed a militia leader to make arrests in New England. The agency emphasized that such false claims are inflammatory and jeopardize the safety of federal officers.
Regarding the detainee, ICE confirmed that Francisco-Mendez is in the country illegally despite claiming asylum status. He has been served with a notice to appear before a Justice Department immigration judge.
In conclusion, ICE is working to dispel misinformation and ensure the public understands the circumstances surrounding the arrest in New Bedford. The agency remains committed to enforcing immigration laws while prioritizing the safety of both officers and individuals involved in enforcement operations.
