Juan Francisco M.: Guatemalan father detained by ICE agents who smashed car window with ax
Juan Francisco Mendez, 29, was released on $1,500 bail and an ankle monitor after 30 days in jail, following a traffic stop where ICE smashed his car window. He now awaits reunion with his wife and son.
Apr 14, 2025New Bedford, MACountry of origin: Guatemala
Juan Francisco Mendez, a 29-year-old Guatemalan immigrant, was released from the Strafford County Jail on May 15, 2025, after being detained for 30 days following his April 14 arrest in New Bedford. An immigration judge set his bail at $1,500, the lowest amount possible, and Mendez was released wearing an ankle monitor. ICE agents had smashed his car window with an ax during the initial traffic stop while Mendez and his wife waited for their lawyer. Mendez is now working toward reunification with his wife and 9-year-old son.
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Sources
- CBS News
- 'They were met with violence': Attorney blasts ICE for smashing car window during arrest in Mass.
NBC Boston·Apr 16, 2025·archived copy
- Man detained by ICE in window-smashing incident set for release, lawyer says
NBC Boston·May 8, 2025·archived copy
- New Bedford man detained by ICE after officers shattered car window has been released
Boston Globe·May 15, 2025·archived copy
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