Honduran man was living in U.S. illegally prior to his capture on Sunday, ICE says
Ivan Rene Mendoza Meza, a 27-year-old Honduran man and self-admitted MS-13 member, was arrested in Providence after a police chase on July 13. U. S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reported that he faces multiple charges related to fentanyl trafficking in Rhode Island. Mendoza was released on $50,000 bail, requiring either a 10% cash payment or full property collateral.
His pursuit ended when an ICE agent crashed into his vehicle, prompting police involvement. Providence police clarified their limited role in his detention, stating they do not enforce immigration laws. ICE has accused local authorities of disregarding its detainers, leading to "at large" detentions. Mendoza's next court date is set for August, where he will attend a pre-trial conference. His case highlights ongoing tensions between local law enforcement and federal immigration enforcement policies.