ICE failed to deport migrant accused of rape in Coney Island

A Nicaraguan migrant, Daniel Davon-Bonilla, 24, has been arrested for allegedly raping a woman at knifepoint in Coney Island, despite having a federal immigration detainer placed on him following a previous sexual assault. His release from jail months ago has raised questions about the effectiveness of local law enforcement cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). New York City’s sanctuary city laws, which prevent local authorities from collaborating with ICE, have been cited as a contributing factor to his continued freedom. Mayor Eric Adams expressed frustration at the situation, labeling Davon-Bonilla as a "poster child" for the issues arising from the lack of coordination between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. He emphasized that the city’s laws hinder cooperation, which could have potentially prevented Davon-Bonilla from being at large. Sources within the Department of Homeland Security indicated that local agencies often do not honor ICE detainers, complicating the enforcement of immigration laws. Davon-Bonilla had been incarcerated for nearly a year before accepting a plea deal that reduced his charges to second-degree assault, allowing him to be released in June. The Brooklyn District Attorney's Office reportedly made this decision due to the victim's unwillingness to testify. Following his latest arrest, he now faces up to seven years in prison for violating the terms of his plea agreement. The recent incident has highlighted ongoing challenges in balancing public safety and immigration policies, with Mayor Adams acknowledging the difficulties posed by a small number of individuals who pose significant risks to the community.