Mass. Teen Arrested, Detained by ICE in Maine After Domestic Dispute

Zeneyda Barrera, an 18-year-old from Lynn, Massachusetts, is currently in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody following her arrest for allegedly pushing her 12-year-old brother during a domestic dispute over a cellphone. Barrera's lawyer, Patrick Callahan, contends that the incident was minor and not something that would typically attract federal attention, especially considering Barrera has asylum status and a work permit. After her arrest by local police, ICE detained her before she could be arraigned, leading to accusations of a miscarriage of justice from her family and legal representation. With the family's asylum application still under review, Barrera's case raises concerns about the recent escalation of federal immigration enforcement in the region. Local officials, including Lynn’s Mayor, have expressed worries about the implications of federal actions on families and community trust. The situation has sparked widespread criticism regarding the treatment of individuals with legal status in the U.S.