In Rhode Island’s largest city, Providence, local government investigators are delving into police actions concerning immigration enforcement. Recently, the Providence External Review Office (PERA) revealed findings indicating that the police violated city ordinances by cooperating with ICE during a federal operation in July.
The report noted that an ICE agent “admittedly assisted” the police as they engaged in civil immigration enforcement. According to PERA, the police gathered intelligence and aided ICE in pursuing Ivan Rene Mendoza Meza, a suspected fentanyl trafficker.
An external committee has since recommended allocating part of the police budget to address these issues. This committee identified a sergeant who, in conversation with a landlord, seemed to confirm Mendoza Meza’s location.
To clarify procedures involving federal agencies, the report suggests the Providence Police should implement clearer operational guidelines and conduct training sessions for all officers. They stated they have reviewed the report and are developing recommended training materials.
“The Providence Police Department is committed to building trust and accountability with our community,” they mentioned.
Mendoza Meza is considered a serious threat, identified as a documented MS-13 gang member. He was being pursued by federal agents on July 13 when he crashed his car into a parked vehicle. Providence police responded to the incident, emphasizing they were focused on public safety.
However, video footage seems to support the involvement of ICE, with reports suggesting that federal agents communicated with a landlord during the incident. Mendoza Meza currently faces preliminary charges of fentanyl trafficking, amid other charges.
City Council President Rachel Miller highlighted the concerns surrounding police collaboration with federal authorities, fearing it could undermine community safety. In 2017, Providence had established the Community Police Relations Act, which restricts police from participating in operations aimed solely at enforcing federal immigration laws, citing specific examples of such prohibitions.
