Title: Courtroom Controversy: Judge Accused of Helping Illegal Immigrant Evade Detention
Newton, MA – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers revealed they were obstructed from detaining an illegal immigrant during a chaotic incident at Newton District Court. The events transpired during a judicial misconduct hearing for Judge Shelley Joseph, accused of facilitating the escape of Dominican national Jose Medina-Perez, who had previously been deported twice.
On April 2, 2018, ICE agent Richard Simmons arrived with a detainer for Medina-Perez, who faced charges of cocaine possession and a fugitive warrant from Pennsylvania. However, after an off-the-record sidebar discussion between Judge Joseph and Medina-Perez’s defense attorney, it was reported that Joseph ordered Simmons to leave the courtroom to prevent any “intimidation” of the defendant.
Following the hearing, it became apparent that Medina-Perez had slipped out the back door, evading ICE detention in violation of court policies. Joseph later expressed surprise at Medina-Perez’s release, denying any intent to assist the defense attorney’s plan.
The state Commission for Judicial Conduct has since pursued civil charges against Joseph for misconduct, underscoring the legal complexities and heated debates surrounding judicial transparency and courtroom procedures.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
