Community members gather to support a detained high school student, advocating for immigrant rights.
Marcelo Gomes Da Silva, an 18-year-old student from Milford High School, was detained by federal immigration agents. His arrest, due to a mistaken identity linked to his father, has led to significant protests and community unrest as citizens rally for his release and support immigrant rights.
Milford, Massachusetts – An 18-year-old student from Milford High School, Marcelo Gomes Da Silva, was detained by federal immigration agents on May 31 while on his way to volleyball practice. His detention has prompted significant unrest within the community, with protests and a rally organized in response to the incident.
Gomes Da Silva was mistakenly identified as his father, Joao Paulo Gomes-Pereira, who is currently in the U.S. illegally and was the target of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation. This arrest took place just one day before Gomes Da Silva was slated to perform with the school band at the graduation ceremony on June 1. Facing heightened anxiety, Principal Joshua Otlin addressed the emotional turmoil affecting students and families at the graduation.
In the aftermath of the detention, students at Milford High School staged a walkout on June 2 to protest the incident, displaying Brazilian flags and carrying signs that read “Free Marcelo.” Additionally, the class president urged fellow graduates to attend a rally at the Milford Town Hall aimed at advocating for Gomes Da Silva’s release.
Gomes Da Silva came to the United States from Brazil in 2012 on a visitor’s visa, which later transitioned into a student visa, though details surrounding its expiration remain unclear. Despite being caught in a serious situation, he has no prior criminal record and has been an active participant in extracurricular activities and community events.
Legal counsel for Gomes Da Silva, Robin Nice, emphasized that he poses no threat to the community and is not considered a flight risk. An important court hearing was scheduled for June 5 to discuss the possibility of securing his release on bond. Compounding the distress experienced by the family, Gomes Da Silva reported being shackled and moved between various holding facilities since his detention.
On June 1, U.S. District Judge Richard Stearns issued an emergency order that temporarily prevents ICE from transferring Gomes Da Silva to another location for 72 hours. This decision serves to keep him in Massachusetts as legal discussions unfold.
ICE officials indicated that the operation targeted Gomes Da Silva’s father, referencing local law enforcement information regarding reckless driving and other infractions. However, the actions have drawn criticism, notably from Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, who demanded clarity from ICE about the incident and safeguards related to due process rights.
Milford Public Schools Superintendent Kevin McIntyre reiterated the district’s commitment to supporting immigrant families, asserting that schools will not participate in immigration enforcement measures. The detention has caused profound distress within the Milford community, with many friends and classmates rallying and expressing heartbreak over the situation.
U.S. Senator Ed Markey voiced criticism of the situation, highlighting it as a reflection of the harsh realities of current immigration policies. Community advocates, including local immigrant rights groups, are actively working to support Gomes Da Silva and prevent his potential transfer to a detention facility outside Massachusetts.
The outpouring of support from the Milford community underscores a broader concern regarding the treatment of immigrants and the implications of enforcement actions on families and students. As the case develops, the solidarity among friends, classmates, and advocates continues to grow, demonstrating the community’s commitment to Gomes Da Silva’s cause.
News Summary Detroit sports fans have much to celebrate as the Motor City Golf Club…
News Summary GoNetspeed, the largest independent fiber builder in the Northeast, is set to expand…
News Summary The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 1st Circuit has overturned several federal…
News Summary The Healey administration in Massachusetts plans to transform over 450 acres of state-owned…
News Summary Massachusetts has seen significant federal immigration enforcement with 'Operation Patriot,' resulting in 1,461…
News Summary The arrest of 18-year-old Marcelo Gomes by ICE while heading to volleyball practice…