A Nicaraguan migrant accused of raping a woman in Brooklyn had an ICE detainer placed on him, but was released after a deal with local prosecutors. The incident has reignited concerns about sanctuary cities and the potential risks to public safety.
In the aftermath of the arrest of Daniel Davon-Bonilla, 24, for allegedly raping a woman near the Coney Island boardwalk, a report has revealed that an ICE detainer had been issued for him after a previous arrest for sexual assault. However, a deal struck with local prosecutors allowed him to walk free.
Migrant Child Rape Suspect's Release Sparks Fury from ICE
The incident has sparked outrage from ICE officials, who have expressed their "fury" over the release of a suspect who should have been in their custody. The New York Post reports that sources within the agency are particularly incensed, stating that Davon-Bonilla's case is an example of the challenges they face in enforcing immigration laws.
Mayor Eric Adams, while expressing his disapproval of Davon-Bonilla's actions, has defended the city's sanctuary city status, which generally prohibits local law enforcement from cooperating with ICE detainers. Adams emphasized that laws do not permit such coordination, although he acknowledged the concerns raised by Davon-Bonilla's case.
Migrant Child Rape Suspect's Release Sparks Fury from ICE
"This is the challenge that we're facing," Adams stated. "The overwhelming number of migrants and asylum seekers that are here -- they're trying to do the next thing and take a step onto their next journey. But you do have that small number that's problematic."
Davon-Bonilla's release has also drawn criticism from city council members, including Bob Holden. Holden has accused the city of failing to protect communities by not cooperating with ICE, claiming that Davon-Bonilla's alleged rape is a direct result of their inaction.
Migrant Child Rape Suspect's Release Sparks Fury from ICE
Sources have disclosed that an ICE detainer was issued for Davon-Bonilla following his arrest in April 2023 for sexually assaulting a woman at a hotel-turned-migrant shelter in Brooklyn. He subsequently pleaded guilty to assault in the second degree and served time at Rikers Island before his release in June 2023.
Prosecutors explained that Davon-Bonilla's plea agreement included time served and court-managed programming, a decision made in response to the victim's request not to testify in any court proceedings. However, the Brooklyn District Attorney's Office has stated that they are generally unaware of defendants' immigration status and do not contact ICE after pleas.
Migrant Child Rape Suspect's Release Sparks Fury from ICE
The controversy surrounding Davon-Bonilla's release has reignited the debate over sanctuary cities and their potential impact on public safety. Advocates of sanctuary cities argue that they create a more inclusive environment for immigrants by reducing fear and allowing them to report crimes and seek assistance without the threat of deportation. However, critics contend that sanctuary cities can provide a safe haven for dangerous criminals who should be deported.
Davon-Bonilla, who has been charged with first-degree rape and sexual abuse in connection with the alleged attack in Coney Island, is currently being held without bail after pleading not guilty. The case has highlighted the complex challenges faced by law enforcement agencies, policymakers, and communities in balancing the need for public safety with the protection of immigrants' rights.
