Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons has made a strong declaration regarding illegal immigration enforcement in Boston. His comments come in response to Democratic Mayor Michelle Wu’s steadfast commitment to sanctuary city policies, which have drawn criticism from federal authorities. Speaking on “The Howie Carr Show,” Lyons asserted, “Now you’re going to see more ICE agents come to Boston to make sure that we take these public safety threats out that she wants to let go back into the communities.”
Lyons referred to the Trump administration’s “Operation Patriot,” a mission that resulted in over 1,500 arrests in the area. He stated, “We are going to keep doing it in Boston. We’re going to continue to do our mission. We’re going to keep making Boston safe as she’s failing to do with these sanctuary city policies.” His remarks clearly indicate a firm resolve to increase ICE presence in Massachusetts, particularly in cities that maintain sanctuary policies.
Pressed about the potential for a more significant ICE operation in Boston akin to the current one in Washington, D.C., Lyons confirmed, “100 percent you will see a larger ICE presence.” He emphasized that sanctuary designations do not equate to safety for communities, stating, “sanctuary does not mean safer streets; it means more criminal aliens out and about in neighborhoods.” According to Lyons, ICE’s previous operations targeted criminal aliens released by local authorities, revealing systemic issues in the treatment of dangerous individuals.
Further complicating matters, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has urged sanctuary jurisdictions to comply with federal laws. Her warning to local leaders included potential criminal charges for those obstructing federal immigration enforcement. During a recent press conference, Bondi asserted, “Cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies… is vital to enforce federal law and protect national security.”
In contrast, Mayor Wu has publicly rejected these warnings, framing them as political maneuvers. She maintains that Boston upholds the law, stating, “This is our city. This is our country… and I’m so proud and grateful to show the world who our community is here in Boston and what we’re made of.” Wu emphasized that Boston adheres to all laws while standing firm against federal criticism. In a separate statement, she reiterated her commitment to maintaining the city’s status as a safe, diverse community.
Lyons and Wu’s exchange highlights the escalating tension between local and federal authorities over immigration enforcement. Their differing views underscore the complex and often contentious landscape of immigration policy in America.
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