Long Island Postal Worker Accused of Assisting ICE Detainee Escape

A postal worker from Long Island is facing serious allegations after temporarily aiding an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainee to escape. This incident unfolded outside the Westhampton Post Office, as revealed in a criminal complaint made public on Thursday.

Tamara Mayorga Wong, 57, is accused of opening the door of a federal vehicle to allow a handcuffed detainee to flee. Reports indicate she told the individual to “run” before attempting to drive away in her own car.

Law enforcement managed to apprehend the detainee quickly, while Mayorga Wong was arrested as she tried to escape through the post office. She reportedly entered a vehicle in a back parking area, locked the doors, and attempted to flee, according to court documents.

Authorities had to order her out of the vehicle multiple times before physically removing her, as stated in the records.

Once in custody, Mayorga Wong reacted strongly, repeatedly yelling at officers in both Spanish and English. She reportedly kicked and swung her arms at them during the confrontation.

In the complaint, agents questioned her about her origins and whether she had children, to which she responded, “What are you going to tell your kids about what you’re doing?” This highlights a certain level of emotional turmoil amidst the situation.

The allegations suggest that Mayorga Wong observed officers attempting to engage a man outside the post office and allegedly intervened after hearing them mention a warrant. She was reportedly told that she could verify the warrant at a nearby office, which is when she is believed to have assisted the detainee.

Currently, Mayorga Wong is charged with obstructing federal business, which carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison, depending on legal interpretations during the prosecution process.

It remains uncertain whether she had any prior connection to the detainee, and details regarding the detainee’s arrest and current status have not been disclosed.

During her arraignment in Suffolk County federal court, Mayorga Wong appeared visibly distressed, looking around for family members while quietly crying before the judge arrived.

She was released the same day after posting a $50,000 bail, but both her legal team and the prosecution declined to comment following the court proceedings.