Politics
Biden Vacations In Nantucket Amid Rising Migrant Crime
Clear Facts
- The Biden family visited Nantucket for Thanksgiving amidst a series of migrant-related crimes on the island.
- Recent ICE operations in Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard have led to the arrest of at least eight illegal immigrants accused of various crimes.
- Concerns about migrant crime have been voiced by local residents, including Nantucket GOP chair Toby Brown, who urges open discussion on the issue.
As President Biden and his family settled into their Thanksgiving tradition on Nantucket Island, the community found itself grappling with a surge in migrant-related crimes. The Bidens’ arrival at the island, known for its liberal leanings, came against the backdrop of a series of arrests by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials targeting illegal immigrants accused of serious offenses.
The picturesque island, typically quiet during the holiday week, was buzzing with activity as Air Force One landed at Nantucket Memorial Airport. The presence of the first family attracted a crowd, and the local hotels were filled with White House reporters and Secret Service personnel. The security measures included the arrival of Massachusetts state troopers and the preparation of over 200 turkey dinners for the Secret Service agents.
This year’s visit marks the continuation of a 40-year tradition for the Bidens, who have been staying at a property owned by billionaire David Rubenstein. However, the tranquility of the island has been disrupted by a wave of violent incidents involving migrants.
In September, ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations of Boston arrested five migrants from Guatemala and El Salvador over a 48-hour period. Among them was Bryan Daniel Aldana-Arevalo, a Salvadoran migrant charged with child rape and indecent assault. Todd Lyons, ERO Boston Field Office Director, stated that Aldana-Arevalo “represents a significant danger to the children of our Massachusetts communities.”
Another case involved Elmer Sola, also from El Salvador, who faced multiple charges of sex crimes against a child. Despite being released with an ankle monitor, Sola allegedly violated his pretrial conditions, raising concerns among residents.
Further arrests included Geon do Amaral Belafronte and Felix Alberto Perez-Gomez, both accused of sex crimes against Nantucket residents. Belafronte, a Brazilian migrant, had previously entered the U.S. lawfully but returned illegally after an alleged assault. He was released on bail following his arraignment.
The community’s anxiety was compounded by the arrest of reputed MS-13 gang member Angel Gabriel Deras-Mejia. His behavior at a local playground, where he was reportedly intoxicated and disruptive, highlighted the growing unease among Nantucket residents.
Toby Brown, chair of the Nantucket GOP, has been vocal about the need for open discussions on illegal immigration and its impact on the island. “We need to have this conversation and not just keep having this… idea that if you’re somehow worried, you’re a racist,” Brown stated. He emphasized the importance of addressing these issues without fear of being labeled.
Brown also acknowledged the contributions of many immigrants to the community, noting that most are law-abiding and seek a better life. “There’s a lot of them that just want a better life. And they come here, and they’re doing the best they can,” he said.
As Nantucket navigates these challenges, the call for a balanced and open dialogue on immigration and crime continues to resonate among its residents.
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