On April 14, ICE agents surrounded Marilu and Juan Mendez’s vehicle in New Bedford, Massachusetts. The couple, who were driving when ICE agents approached, initially thought there was a case of mistaken identity, as the agents referred to Juan as “Antonio.” After contacting their lawyer, they were advised to stay in their car and not provide any information. Despite this, ICE agents broke the car window with a hammer and forcibly removed both Marilu and Juan.

Marilu, an asylum seeker, and Juan, an undocumented immigrant in the process of legalizing his status, claim that they had no reason to be detained. Their lawyer emphasized that Juan has no criminal record and that they were following the law. Marilu told Telemundo that the agents acted without providing a legal order and used excessive force during the arrest.

Juan is now in a detention center in Dover, New Hampshire, awaiting a hearing on May 7. The incident has sparked public outcry, with New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell condemning ICE’s actions and raising concerns about the lack of coordination with local police. Mitchell called for an explanation from the Trump administration regarding the operation.

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