Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Rhode Island arrested a Guatemalan illegal alien just one day after a local judge released him on bond despite serious charges involving a minor.
Josue Santiago Perez Gomez, 29, was initially arrested and charged with patronizing a minor for commercial sex, indecent solicitation of a child, and procurement of sexual conduct for a fee. Despite his illegal immigration status, a Rhode Island judge released him on bond, allowing him to walk free. ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents re-arrested Perez Gomez on July 12.
Patricia Hyde, ICE Boston Field Office Director, condemned the release:
“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. 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.”
HSI Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Kroll added that the arrest highlights their commitment to targeting individuals who pose a serious threat, “including and especially children.”
Perez Gomez remains in ICE custody pending removal proceedings. He was among multiple criminal illegal aliens arrested in New England during July enforcement actions, which included individuals charged or convicted of murder, rape, and other serious offenses.
The case has reignited debate over so-called “sanctuary” policies in parts of New England, where local authorities have faced criticism for releasing criminal suspects wanted by federal immigration agencies. Opponents of these policies argue they undermine public safety by allowing potentially dangerous individuals to remain in communities rather than being turned over to ICE for removal.
Supporters of limiting cooperation with ICE contend that local law enforcement should focus on community policing rather than immigration enforcement, arguing that trust between immigrant communities and police is crucial for solving crimes. However, high-profile cases like that of Perez Gomez are fueling calls for tighter coordination between local jurisdictions and federal immigration authorities.
