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Lynn mayor decries ‘forceful’ ICE arrest of man with legal residency
The ICE arrest happened outside a local elementary school during drop-off.
In a video shared online, five federal agents with tactical gear force a man to the ground beside a construction vehicle and detain him in Lynn, as part of what the mayor there called a “forceful” ICE arrest outside of a local elementary school.
According to school officials, the arrest occurred on Linwood Road, near Tracy Elementary School, on Wednesday morning.
Lynn Mayor Jared Nicholson described the arrest as “forceful” and stated that it was “extremely concerning” that it occurred during drop-off time at a nearby elementary school.
He added that the incident appears to reflect a broader pattern of ICE activity in the city, which he said is often “reckless and serves to create fear and alarm among our residents.”
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The mayor’s office confirmed that family members identified the man as Alejandro Reyes. The family has provided documentation to the mayor’s office that proves that he is a permanent resident of the United States.
His wife, who is pregnant, told The Daily Item that Reyes owns his own business, Reyes Carpentry.
“He’s a good father, a good worker, and a good member of the community,” she told the paper.
In a statement from Lynn Superintendent of Schools Evonne Alvarez, she said the incident occurred at around 7:40 a.m. on Lindwood Road, behind the Tracy School.
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School staff witnessed federal agents detain individuals who had no affiliation with the school, the statement said.
“This operation, which included a physical struggle, was in clear view of students and staff who were arriving at school,” Alvarez said.
ICE did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Principal Carrie Nicosia initiated a Secure and Hold, bringing all students inside to prevent them from witnessing the incident further.
“This decision was made solely to protect the students’ social and emotional well-being,” said Alvarez.
The school is providing additional bilingual counseling resources for anyone who wishes to speak with someone.
“Principal Nicosia and her staff handled an extremely difficult situation with the utmost professionalism and compassion,” Alvarez said.
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