In a recent statement, Homan revealed that he traveled to Boston last Tuesday to initiate a five-day operation, which resulted in several arrests. However, the identities of those apprehended have not been disclosed, leaving no independent means to verify the claims surrounding the operation. According to officials from ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement), out of the total arrests, 205 individuals had “significant criminal convictions or charges.” Information regarding the remaining 165 individuals arrested was not provided by ICE.
In a statement made on Monday, Healey emphasized that Massachusetts does not operate as a sanctuary state. She highlighted the collaboration between state law enforcement and federal agencies, asserting that this partnership is essential for public safety. “Just two weeks ago, the Massachusetts State Police were recognized at the White House by President Trump and Attorney General Bondi for our collaboration in apprehending two dozen members of a violent gang and fentanyl trafficking ring in Lawrence,” she noted.
Healey underscored her commitment to public safety, stating, “This should never be a partisan issue.” Meanwhile, Wu, who testified before a congressional committee earlier this month, praised Boston’s public safety record. She argued that the city's immigration policies actually enhance public safety rather than undermine it. Wu was not available for comment on Monday.
Boston's Trust Act, which resembles typical “sanctuary city” laws, generally prohibits police from participating in deportation efforts, which are primarily federal matters. This ordinance aligns with a ruling from the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, which Wu and Boston police commissioner Michael Cox have cited to argue that police cannot detain individuals solely for deportation if those individuals are not charged with a crime. City officials contend that this policy encourages immigrants to report crimes and cooperate with law enforcement.
Despite this, Trump administration officials have urged cities like Boston to enhance their cooperation with deportation efforts, threatening federal funding cuts and potential criminal or civil charges against public officials who obstruct these efforts.
In addition to the arrests made in Massachusetts, ICE reported seizing approximately 44 kilograms of methamphetamines, five kilograms of fentanyl, 1.2 kilograms of cocaine, and three firearms during the operation. Michael J. Krol, special agent in charge of ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations field office in New England, stated, “We are taking a whole-of-government approach to protecting our communities from foreign nationals involved in transnational gangs, drug traffickers, child predators, violent criminals, and dangerous individuals living in New England.”
Massachusetts US Attorney Leah B. Foley commented, “Everyone should agree that we cannot and will not tolerate individuals who not only violate our immigration laws but then commit crimes that endanger our communities.” She added, “Those who enter and remain in this country unlawfully are breaking the law.”
Homan has previously voiced criticism of Boston’s immigration policies, declaring, “I’m coming to Boston, and I’m bringing hell with me.” In response to Homan’s comments, Wu stated, “Shame on him for lying about my city,” emphasizing that Boston has set record lows for gun violence since her tenure began. “Last year, Boston saw the fewest homicides on record in the last 70 years,” she asserted. “Those are the facts.”
Wu further expressed her concerns regarding the Trump administration's rhetoric, claiming it instills fear among law-abiding residents. “A city that’s scared is not a city that’s safe. A land ruled by fear is not the land of the free,” she stated. Healey also criticized Homan’s threats, suggesting they are counterproductive. “You should come here with support and resources, to help us address any public safety issues we’re experiencing,” Healey remarked.
Concluding her statements, Healey affirmed that Massachusetts “isn't just doing this public safety work — we are a model for it. We are ranked as one of the safest states in the country for a reason, and we are going to stay that way.”
Material from previous Globe stories contributed to this report.
