Massachusetts Daycare Closes After Fugitive Child Rapist Arrested

A home daycare in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, has been closed after authorities discovered that Andre Tiago Lucas, an undocumented immigrant from Brazil convicted of raping a 13-year-old, had been residing there with the owner. Lucas, who fled Brazil after his 2016 conviction, was arrested by ICE's Boston office in October 2024. The daycare owner, Franciele Nunes, reportedly lived with Lucas and had allowed her state license to expire earlier that year. Despite five inspections, the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care said it found no evidence of Lucas’ presence during visits. Local officials and lawmakers have condemned the incident, calling for stronger background checks and policy changes to prevent fugitives from finding refuge in the state. ICE officials emphasized the need to prioritize public safety and remove noncitizen offenders.