Three Jamaicans were among several Caribbean nationals apprehended by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) in a recent immigration sweep across the Country.

The arrestees were identified as having been convicted of felony rape, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, unlawful possession or use of a firearm, drug distribution or trafficking, or driving under the influence.

According to the agency the Jamaicans were released from incarceration on parole or placed on probation into communities under supervision during a nationwide enforcement effort between March 4 and March 13.

“Working behind the scenes and out of the spotlight, ERO officers continually work to identify and arrest noncitizens who violate American laws,” said Cammilla Wamsley, ERO Philadelphia field office director.

“Congratulations to all of the officers who took part in this operation and thank you for your vigilance, dedication, and hard work,” Wamsley added.

ICE said those arrested include a 28-year-old citizen of Haiti, residing in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, who was convicted in April 2022 of misdemeanor indecent assault on a person less than 16 years of age.

In addition, ICE said a 24-year-old citizen of Jamaica, residing in Chester, Pennsylvania, was apprehended. He was convicted in March 2022 of felony criminal possession of a firearm. 

ICE said ERO Newark, New Jersey also arrested a 40-year-old citizen of Trinidad and Tobago, residing in Teaneck, New Jersey. 

He was convicted by the US District Court in the Southern District of New York of felony conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, and felony narcotics — sell/distribute/dispense in November 2022. 

“Community safety remains our ultimate priority as the arrests of these dangerous criminals demonstrate. Our officers showed their usual courage and professionalism as they carried out these arrests of these individuals, who were targeted based on the seriousness of their criminal offenses,” said John Tsoukaris, ERO Newark field office director.

In New York City, ICE said two Jamaican nationals were arrested among 27 criminal noncitizens during the nationwide operation. 

According to the agency the offenses included felony rape, sex abuse, and criminal possession of a firearm. 

Among the arrestees was a 26-year-old citizen of Jamaica, residing in Queens, New York, who was convicted in November 2022 by the Kings County Supreme Court in Brooklyn, New York, of felony sex abuse in the first degree. ICE said the victim was under 13. 

Another Jamaican, a 27-year-old national, living in Brooklyn, was also arrested, ICE said. The immigration agency said he was convicted by the Supreme Court of the State of New York, Kings County, of felony criminal possession of a firearm, in July 2022. 

“ERO New York City deportation officers are committed to enforcing our nation’s immigration laws against violent criminals, sex offenders, and other noncitizens who pose a threat to public safety,” said Kenneth Genalo, ERO New York City field office director.