Dem Rhode Island state rep defends MS-13 gang member arrested by ICE

A Rhode Island state representative has come under fire for referring to ICE agents as "Nazi Gestapo thugs" following an immigration enforcement operation that resulted in the arrest of a documented MS-13 gang member, who ICE has identified as Ivan Rene Mendoza-Meza, 27, of Honduras.

Rep. Enrique Sanchez, a progressive Democrat, wrote in a social media post: "The Nazi Gestapo ICE thugs kidnapped another of our neighbors in Providence this morning. This time on Alverson St. The ICE thugs damaged a couple of residents' cars as well. They think they are above the law. I strongly condemn this act of terror and will be demanding answers and seeking action tomorrow."

"I am tired of this sh*t," he continued, "Providence doesn't want ICE thugs in our city."

ICE Boston spokesperson James Covington told Fox News that Mendoza-Meza is a "self-admitted member of MS-13 in Honduras" and has allegedly "committed crimes on behalf of the gang."

In May 2019, Mendoza-Meza was quickly deported to Mexico after illegally entering the United States near San Ysidro, California, according to authorities, who said Mendoza-Meza unlawfully returned to the US on an unknown date. He has a criminal history that includes charges for trafficking fentanyl. ICE Boston lodged an immigration detainer with the county jail in August 2023. However, it was not honored, and local authorities released Mendoza-Meza from custody without notifying ICE, the federal agency told Fox News.

During the operation, Mendoza attempted to flee and caused a crash by striking ICE vehicles before running into his apartment. He ultimately surrendered to agents after he was surrounded for some time, ICE sources told the network.

Rep. Sanchez refers to ICE agents as "Nazi Gestapo thugs" following the apprehension of an alleged MS-13 gang member

ICE spokesperson Emily Covington told Fox News in a statement: "Mr. Sanchez thinks so little of his community that he refers to ruthless MS-13 as his 'neighbors'? What say you, Providence? The only 'thugs' we see are the illegal terrorist gangbangers we are trying to remove from the neighborhoods of Providence."

Records show that Rep. Sanchez was arrested for DUI earlier this year. In 2023, he introduced a bill (RI H5461) to give illegal immigrants the right to vote in Rhode Island. However, the bill was not brought to the floor for a vote.
 

Members of the public can report immigration-related crimes or suspicious activity by calling (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.