The release of a twice-deported rapist in Virginia has sparked renewed debates over the effectiveness of Democratic-led sanctuary policies and their impact on public safety. This incident has brought significant attention to the role of local jurisdictions in enforcing federal immigration laws and the potential risks associated with limited cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Guatemala national David Cabrera was collared by ICE last week after being set free by sanctuary-aligned jurisdiction Arlington County, who refused to honor a federal detainer and released him without notifying ICE. In a video obtained by Fox News, Cabrera is seen roaming a local street before ICE agents initiate his arrest. This case has become a focal point in discussions about the dangers posed by sanctuary policies, which have been widely criticized by ICE officials.
Cabrera entered the U.S. illegally in 2014 and was convicted of felony rape in 2015, receiving a sentence of more than seven years in prison, though a portion of it was suspended. He was initially released into ICE custody in 2017 and subsequently deported to Guatemala, but re-entered the U.S. again at an unknown time and date. He was then arrested again for a probation violation and deported again in 2020, only to re-enter the country once more.
Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons has strongly criticized the release, stating that it puts agents and the public at risk.