PROVIDENCE POLICE ACCUSED OF AIDING ICE IN SANCTUARY VIOLATION, CITY WATCHDOG FINDS

Providence’s civilian oversight board (PERA) says city police impermissibly assisted ICE during a July operation targeting Ivan Rene Mendoza-Meza, allegedly violating Providence’s ordinance restricting cooperation in civil immigration enforcement. The report cites officers setting a perimeter, gathering intelligence and helping confirm a location with a landlord. PERA recommends clearer protocols and training; Providence Police says training materials are being prepared. ICE lists Mendoza-Meza as a most-wanted MS-13 affiliate with prior fentanyl trafficking charges.