Worcester police officers are demanding an ethics investigation into City Councilor Etel Haxhiaj after she allegedly assaulted officers during an ICE arrest of a violent criminal immigrant.
At a Glance
- Worcester Police Patrol Officers’ Union has called for an ethics investigation into City Councilor Etel Haxhiaj for allegedly inciting a crowd and physically confronting officers during an ICE arrest
- The incident involved the arrest of Ferreira de Oliveira, an undocumented immigrant charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and assault on a pregnant victim
- Approximately 30 protesters attempted to block ICE vehicles, resulting in the arrest of de Oliveira’s minor daughter for endangering her infant
- Federal authorities described de Oliveira as a “violent criminal illegal alien” who entered the U.S. illegally in August 2022
- The Department of Homeland Security credited President Trump and Secretary Noem for the successful removal of the criminal from the streets
Councilor’s Actions During ICE Arrest Spark Controversy
The Worcester Police Patrol Officers’ Union is seeking a formal ethics investigation into City Councilor Etel Haxhiaj following her alleged involvement in obstructing an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation. According to reports, Haxhiaj is accused of inciting approximately 25 protesters and physically confronting law enforcement officers during the arrest of Ferreira de Oliveira, an undocumented immigrant charged with serious violent crimes. The contentious scene unfolded at 31 Eureka Street in Worcester, where federal agents faced significant resistance from a crowd that had gathered to prevent the detention.
The police union has issued a strongly worded statement condemning Haxhiaj’s actions, claiming her conduct not only endangered officers but also violated ethical laws governing city officials. The situation escalated when neighbors formed a protective circle around de Oliveira’s family in an attempt to prevent ICE from completing their mission. Despite the interference, federal agents ultimately succeeded in arresting the subject, though not before the situation deteriorated into what Worcester Mayor Joseph Petty described as a chaotic scene.
Violent Criminal Background and Federal Response
Federal authorities have identified the woman arrested as an illegal immigrant with a violent criminal history. According to the Department of Homeland Security, de Oliveira faces charges of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and assault and battery on a pregnant victim. She reportedly entered the United States illegally in August 2022, during what federal officials characterized as the previous administration’s “open border policies.” The arrest has become a focal point in the ongoing national debate over immigration enforcement priorities.
“ICE officers and local police regained control of the situation and ICE arrested Ferreira de Oliveira. The previous administration’s open border policies allowed this criminal to illegally enter our country in August of 2022. Thanks to President Trump and Secretary Noem this criminal is off our streets.”, said DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin.
The Department of Homeland Security specifically criticized Councilor Haxhiaj, stating she “pulled a political stunt and incited chaos by trying to obstruct law enforcement.” Federal officials emphasized that despite the interference, they successfully completed their mission to apprehend an individual they described in capital letters as a “VIOLENT CRIMINAL ILLEGAL ALIEN.” The strong language used by federal authorities underscores the seriousness with which they viewed both the criminal background of the subject and the interference they encountered.
Minor’s Arrest and Community Reaction
During the chaotic scene, de Oliveira’s daughter, a minor, was arrested after allegedly attempting to stop the ICE vehicle. She faces charges of reckless endangerment, having reportedly placed her newborn at risk during the confrontation. According to reports, Worcester police officers restrained the young woman while securing the area. Officials later confirmed that the infant involved was unharmed, and the minor was subsequently released. Video footage of the incident has sparked additional controversy in the community.
The incident has prompted Worcester Mayor Joseph Petty to call for the establishment of a clear policy regarding city officials’ interactions with ICE operations. The controversial arrest has divided the community, with some residents demanding answers about the police response while others support the enforcement of immigration laws against individuals with violent criminal histories. The Worcester Police Patrol Officers’ Union maintains that Councilor Haxhiaj’s alleged actions went beyond acceptable conduct for an elected official and created an unsafe environment for law enforcement personnel.
