Massachusetts Lawmaker Raises Alarm Over Rising Crime Linked to Immigration Policies

Massachusetts state Senator Ryan Fattman, a Republican, has issued a stark warning regarding the potentially disastrous effects of what he describes as a “perfect storm” of immigration policies that threaten public safety and escalate living costs in the state.

One pivotal policy stems from the 2017 ruling by the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court in the case of Lunn vs. Commonwealth. This ruling restricts local and state law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration enforcement efforts.

As a result of this decision, law enforcement agencies cannot comply with ICE detainer requests, which often forces police departments and sheriff’s offices to release individuals charged with serious crimes back into the community without informing ICE.

This situation has compelled ICE to re-arrest several dangerous illegal immigrants released by Massachusetts law enforcement under conditions of minimal bail—sometimes as low as $500 or even with no bail required. These individuals faced charges ranging from child rape to fentanyl trafficking.

Fattman commented to Fox News Digital that these incidents are not anomalies. He emphasized that similar cases are occurring across the entire commonwealth.

Increased Burden on State Resources

The senator also highlighted the implications of Massachusetts’ “Right to Shelter” law, which has led to the establishment of a vast network of migrant shelters. According to Fattman, this initiative has cost taxpayers over $3 billion since 2021, with whistleblowers revealing widespread abuse of the shelter system. Reports have surfaced of drug trafficking and severe crimes, including instances of sexual misconduct by migrants.

Recent findings from a public records request by the Boston Globe unearthed more than 3,000 pages detailing reports of rape, domestic violence, assault, and other crimes committed by illegal immigrants residing in state-funded shelters.

Fattman stated, “You have a perfect storm happening in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. We have 3,000 pages of public safety incidents and over $3 billion expended at taxpayers’ expense, while municipalities across the state are facing financial collapse.”

Political Accountability and Fiscal Responsibility

In addressing the root cause of the crisis, Fattman holds Massachusetts Democratic Governor Maura Healey and the Democratic majority legislature accountable. He asserted that approximately 99 percent of political asylum cases in the state’s immigration courts are ultimately rejected.

Fattman elaborated, “The belief that these individuals will settle here and contribute positively is misleading. We have squandered $3 billion on individuals who are unlikely to secure legal residency in Massachusetts. This situation is absolutely misguided and unjustifiable.”

He voiced his frustration, stating, “This is insanity, and we need to enact changes. Citizens are demanding safety for their families and seek the reassurance that they can traverse their neighborhoods without fear or harm. This reality is simply not present in our state right now.”

Proposed Legislative Changes to Enhance Safety

To address these pressing concerns, Fattman has introduced a new bill titled the “Shield Act.” This proposal aims to override the Lunn ruling and would grant local and state law enforcement the authority to collaborate with ICE. Its purpose is to keep criminal illegal immigrants off the streets and ensure community safety.

Despite Massachusetts being a solidly Democratic state, Fattman remains hopeful that the electorate will push for change. He believes the current atmosphere surrounding the Lunn decision has become politically unsustainable for many constituents.

Fattman explained, “The Lunn decision specifies that the legislature must create a law for the ruling to hold. As it stands, no such law exists, and therefore ICE detainers are not being honored. The remedy lies in the legislative action that is urgently needed.”

Increasing Community Dissatisfaction

Although Massachusetts is often classified as a blue state, Fattman points out that many regions consist of significant purple and red populations. These communities are growing increasingly frustrated with the situation, as they witness rising rates of violence and crime. He noted disturbing trends, such as pregnant women becoming victims of assault by individuals unlawfully residing in the state.

To compound these issues, Fattman stressed, “We have essentially extended an open invitation for support, covering expenses such as food, education, healthcare, and shelter. The financial burden has reached billions of dollars. We are nearing a breaking point where public discontent will reach its peak.”

In Summary

As Massachusetts grapples with the complexities of immigration policy and public safety, legislators like Fattman are stepping forward to advocate for change. The implications of existing policies and fiscal responsibility will undoubtedly resonate with voters as they seek solutions to bolster safety and safeguard their communities.