Illegal migrant arrested for rape in Massachusetts after court release

Jorge Luis Castro-Alvarado, a 28-year-old migrant from Guatemala, was arrested in Lynn, Massachusetts, on August 1 after being charged with rape. He had previously been released by the Essex County Superior Court despite an active immigration detainer lodged by ICE following his earlier conviction for assault and battery. The court had sentenced him to eighteen months in prison, which was later reduced to six months. In April, Castro-Alvarado faced arraignment for two counts of rape and indecent assault and battery on a person over 14 years old. Despite the serious charges and the existing immigration detainer, the court released him on bail without notifying immigration officials. This decision raised significant concerns regarding public safety, as ICE officials highlighted the potential threat Castro-Alvarado posed to the community. The release of Castro-Alvarado has sparked discussions about the responsibilities of local courts in notifying immigration authorities when dealing with individuals who have pending immigration detainers. The lack of communication between the court and ICE has been criticized, especially given Castro-Alvarado's violent history. In response to the situation, ICE's Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Boston branch emphasized their commitment to prioritizing public safety by apprehending noncitizen individuals who pose threats to communities in New England. The case underscores the complexities surrounding immigration enforcement and the legal system's handling of individuals with criminal backgrounds.