Massachusetts Supreme Court reprimands judge, signaling warning to sanctuary courts
The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court formally rebuked Judge Shelley Joseph for allowing a detainee to evade ICE, prompting DHS officials to warn sanctuary judges.
In a formal reprimand, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court criticized Judge Shelley Joseph for facilitating the escape of Oscar Manuel Peguero, an illegal alien facing a Pennsylvania fugitive warrant, from ICE custody during a 2018 drug possession hearing. Prosecutors allege Joseph opened a back exit and disabled the courtroom audio, allowing Peguero to avoid arrest. The court’s decision, delivered on September 10, states that Joseph created an appearance of impropriety.
DHS General Counsel James Percival interpreted the reprimand as a warning to other sanctuary judges, emphasizing that aiding illegal immigrants to evade immigration officers constitutes a felony. Earlier federal charges of conspiracy and obstruction against Joseph were dismissed by the Biden administration in 2022. Peguero’s immigration history includes multiple illegal entries and deportations since 2003, underscoring the broader debate over sanctuary policies and federal enforcement.
Why it matters
The reprimand signals heightened federal scrutiny of judges who limit cooperation with immigration authorities.
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