A group of around 25 people confronted immigration and customs enforcement agents in Worcester, Massachusetts, on Thursday morning while the agents attempted to carry out an arrest.
The Worcester Police received a call around 11:13 a.m. reporting that federal agents were surrounded by a hostile crowd.
According to police, one woman who had a baby was particularly obstructive, reportedly attempting to run in front of a moving vehicle. Eventually, she was taken into custody.
The department highlighted that there were claims from bystanders about ICE agents not displaying warrants.
In an effort to maintain order, local police intervened to ensure safety and prevent any possible injuries.
Witnesses described the atmosphere as chaotic, with numerous agents from various federal agencies present during the incident.
Local police stated that, despite efforts to remove the woman from the scene, the crowd actively impeded the process.
One protester, referred to as the “boy woman,” stood in front of a federal vehicle while holding a newborn. Officers warned her about the dangers to the child, and she eventually handed the baby to another person.
After a brief chase and an attempt to kick the vehicle, the woman was arrested. She faces several charges including reckless endangerment of a child and resisting arrest.
The 38-year-old woman allegedly resisted law enforcement, even throwing an unknown substance at officers during the confrontation. She has also been charged with assault and battery.
Local reports indicated that she was running for a seat on the school board.
The Worcester Police noted that two individuals were arrested during the altercation due to their aggressive actions.
An immigration advocacy group claims that ICE was targeting local immigrant families and had previously detained a family member without a valid warrant. They expressed concern over the increasing tension and fear within the immigrant community.
A city council member present during the incident attempted to form a “human circle” to protect the arrested woman but became increasingly distressed as events unraveled.
The council member criticized the police’s handling of the situation and called for a reconsideration of forceful tactics.
Worcester’s Mayor expressed dismay over the events, emphasizing the emotional toll and disruption caused to families in the community.
Efforts to contact ICE for a comment have gone unanswered.
