An illegal alien convicted of aggravated murder in Brazil was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Massachusetts on August 3, 2024 — just two days before the state’s Democratic governor signed a law restricting federal immigration enforcement operations.
The individual, Maycon Souto Dos Reis, fled Brazil after receiving a sentence exceeding 14 years for aggravated murder. Dos Reis entered the United States illegally in June 2024 and was initially detained but released under policies implemented by the Biden administration.
ICE apprehended Dos Reis during a targeted operation at a Southborough courthouse on August 3 following his prior arrest on May 29 for operating a motor vehicle without a license. The timing of his capture coincided with Governor Maura Healey’s signing of the PROTECT Act on August 1, which imposes new restrictions on ICE operations within Massachusetts.
David Wesling, Acting ICE ERO Boston Field Office Director, stated: “This is yet another example of what the media often characterizes as a non-criminal. In reality, many of these individuals are murderers, sexual predators, gang members, and more. They simply do not have a criminal record in the United States.”
The incident has heightened tensions between federal immigration enforcement and state policies in jurisdictions labeled “sanctuary.” Critics argue that laws like the PROTECT Act hinder efforts to remove dangerous migrants from American communities and undermine public safety.
