ICE Arrests MS-13 Fentanyl Dealer in Providence amid Local Political Backlash

Federal immigration authorities arrested Ivan Rene Mendoza Meza, a self-admitted MS-13 gang member and known fentanyl trafficker, in Providence, Rhode Island after he had been released despite prior serious charges due to state policies requiring court orders for detainers. The arrest sparked controversy among local Democratic leaders, with Providence police and city council members expressing concern over the perception that local police collaborated with ICE agents during the operation, prompting calls for a civilian oversight review. Democratic State Representative Enrique Sanchez harshly criticized ICE, calling the agents "Nazi Gestapo thugs" and accusing them of "terrorism," while omitting mention of Mendoza's criminal background. ICE spokespeople defended their actions, emphasizing the danger Mendoza posed and rejecting the lawmaker's characterization. The incident highlights the ongoing tension in Rhode Island over immigration enforcement, public safety, and political responses to arrests of illegal immigrants with criminal histories. Local officials reaffirmed policies prohibiting Providence police from conducting immigration enforcement and stressed the importance of residents feeling safe to approach law enforcement without fear of immigration consequences.