A daycare in Cape Cod has closed its doors after it was discovered that a fugitive illegal immigrant from Brazil was living there. The man, Andre Tiago Lucas, was wanted for the rape of a 13-year-old child in Brazil and was arrested in Bourne last October by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Massachusetts Republican State Representative Steven George Xiarhos expressed his outrage, stating, “It’s absolutely disgusting and shameful, and it never should have happened.”
Tiago Lucas was convicted by a Brazilian court in 2016 for the rape of a vulnerable person and sentenced to over nine years in prison. He fled Brazil and somehow found his way to Massachusetts, living undetected for some time. ICE records confirm his conviction and the subsequent escape to the U.S.
Living with Franciele Nunes at her home daycare in Hyannis, Tiago Lucas managed to remain hidden until a local investigation brought him to light. The Department of Early Education and Care inspected the daycare multiple times but failed to find evidence of Lucas’s presence. Nunes had been a licensed daycare provider for three years, according to public records.
ICE ERO Boston’s acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde remarked that Lucas “falsely” believed he could escape justice in Massachusetts. Xiarhos emphasized the need for stronger background checks for individuals coming to the U.S., particularly those residing in Massachusetts. He advocates for a more secure nation with comprehensive checks beyond the current CORI system.
The Right to Shelter law in Massachusetts, enacted in 1983, guarantees housing for families and pregnant women without homes. However, the recent influx of migrants has strained resources, leaving the state overwhelmed. This situation has resulted in the establishment of numerous migrant shelters, costing taxpayers billions since 2021.
Rep. Xiarhos noted that the circumstances today are vastly different from when the law was passed. He suggests that no one foresaw the current challenges posed by the rising number of migrants. The strain has prompted calls for policy changes and stronger immigration enforcement.
Governor Maura Healey proposed changes to the law in January, including mandatory criminal background checks. Massachusetts gubernatorial candidate Mike Kennealy criticized Healey’s policies, claiming they have turned the state into a sanctuary for lawbreakers. He argues that Healey’s leadership endangers communities and puts children at risk.
Kennealy asserts that he will end sanctuary protections for fugitives if elected. He promises to enforce the law, expand background checks, and prioritize public safety. His stance reflects a commitment to restoring order and protecting the community.
Fox News Digital reached out to Healey’s office for comment on the situation. Kennealy vows to take a hardline approach against illegal immigrants who commit violent crimes. He emphasizes that there will be no refuge for such individuals under his leadership.
It remains uncertain if Nunes will face charges related to Lucas’s fugitive status. Barnstable police have been contacted for further information. This incident highlights the ongoing debate over immigration and public safety in Massachusetts.
The case has raised questions about the effectiveness of current immigration policies. Many believe that stricter measures are necessary to prevent similar situations in the future. The controversy continues to unfold as state officials and candidates weigh in on the issue.
Local residents express concern over the implications of such incidents on community safety. The debate underscores the complexity of balancing humanitarian efforts with security needs. As the situation evolves, Massachusetts faces tough decisions regarding its immigration stance.
