ICE says detainment action in Providence was against Dominican national

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Immigration and Customs Enforcement said that a detainment action that drew protests at Rhode Island Hospital on April 24 was against a Dominican national.

ICE said that the individual became “combative” with agents and was tased as a result.

“Despite public outrage over the officers using a taser to subdue the individual, ICE officers are highly trained in the deployment of such tactics,” an ICE spokesperson said. “In this case, our officers used the minimum amount of force to de-escalate the situation and were justified in their actions, especially considering the individual’s history of violent history.”

ICE said that the individual was allegedly arrested previously for domestic violence – assault and battery, domestic violence – unlawful breaking and entering a dwelling or house, domestic violence – refusal to relinquish/damaging/obstructing telephone, resisting arrest, assault of a police officer, and disorderly conduct.

The agency did not release the individual’s identity and did not say where the arrest occurred.

A protest outside the hospital was organized by the Party for Socialism and Liberation Rhode Island at what was believed to be the time of the detainment.

In addition, Attorney Kelvin Santos, who said he works with a network of attorneys that “works to protect the rights of immigrants,” attempted to speak with an individual that was believed to have been detained but was denied.

ABC 6 is waiting for a response for a request for comment from Santos on any additional details of the case.