Rhode Island Local Officials Criticized for Ignoring ICE Detainer on Child Predator

PORTSMOUTH, RI – An illegal immigrant arrested in Rhode Island this past July under various charges involving child sex crimes was later apprehended by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents upon his release from custody in Portsmouth after local authorities refused to honor a detainer placed on the suspected child sex offender.

A press release from ICE detailed the apprehension of 29-year-old Josue Santiago Perez Gomez, an illegal alien from Guatemala who had been arrested by the Portsmouth Police Department on July 11th under charges of patronizing a minor for commercial sex, indecent solicitation of a child, and procurement of sexual conduct for a fee.

Despite a detainer being administered by ICE regarding Perez Gomez’s immigration status, local authorities ignored the law enforcement request and allowed Perez Gomez to post bail, which was set at $5,000 following his arraignment on July 12th.

Ironically, Portsmouth Police had been working alongside Homeland Security Investigations’ (HSI) New England office in the joint operation that led to Perez Gomez’s July 11th arrest involving alleged child sex crimes.

Notwithstanding the refusal to honor ICE detainers by local authorities, HSI New England Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol confirmed Perez Gomez was taken into custody by agents the very same day he was released by local authorities.

“This individual’s administrative arrest underscores HSI New England’s commitment to targeted enforcement that works to identify individuals seeking to cause harm to our communities, including and especially children,” SIC Krol stated, adding, “HSI will continue to work with our partners to enforce laws that uphold national security and the safety and wellbeing of our neighborhoods.”

ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations' (ERO) Boston office also issued a statement following Perez Gomez’s apprehension, lambasting the sanctuary practices upheld by various state and local governments which shield illegal immigrants accused of heinous crimes.

“Josue Santiago Perez Gomez stands accused of some disgusting and disturbing crimes and represents a clear threat to the children of our Rhode Island communities,” said Director Patricia Hyde of ICE’s ERO Boston office, adding, “Releasing an alleged child sex offender the very day of his arrest begs the question: What is the point of arresting him at all? Luckily, the brave men and women of ICE were able to remove this criminal alien pedophile from our streets where local authorities allowed him to potentially reoffend.”

Agency officials say Perez Gomez had entered the country without inspection at an unknown time and is currently undergoing removal proceedings while in ICE custody.
 
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Comments

James

These "officials" need to held accountable for their lawlessness! Put them in jail and make it cost them a large fine!

James

Also the names of the "officials" need to be published so we know who they are!!!

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