A Salvadoran national previously deported from the United States on two separate occasions has been arrested once again by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement after evading capture while racking up multiple criminal charges in Massachusetts.
Emilio Neftaly Pineda was taken into custody by ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston on June 12 in Peabody. The arrest was carried out with support from the FBI Boston Field Office and the DEA’s New England Division.
According to federal authorities, Pineda has a troubling record that includes convictions for domestic assault and battery, violating a restraining order, and operating a motor vehicle under the influence. He also failed to appear in court on two active warrants for leaving the scene of an accident and compulsory insurance violations, prompting law enforcement to act.
ICE @EROBoston arrested Emelio Neftaly Pineda, an illegal Salvadoran alien – previously deported TWICE. He has convictions for domestic assault & battery, violating a restraining order, driving under the influence of alcohol. Also a warrant for leaving the scene of an accident. pic.twitter.com/UcnWOkT2MJ
— ERO Boston (@EROBoston) June 13, 2025
This is not Pineda’s first encounter with ICE. He was previously removed from the United States in February and July of 2016, but unlawfully re-entered the country at an unknown time and location. His latest arrest marks yet another example of the ongoing challenge ICE faces in preventing previously deported criminals from returning.
ICE @EROBoston, ICE @HSINewEngland, @FBIBoston and @DEANEWENGLAND arrested Emilio Neftaly Pineda, an illegal Salvadoran alien with several convictions in Massachusetts. Officers with ICE, FBI, and DEA apprehended Pineda in Peabody.
Details posting soon on https://t.co/p6jevNJA62 pic.twitter.com/LABJjNpg5q— ERO Boston (@EROBoston) June 17, 2025
“Emilio Pineda has several convictions in the state of Massachusetts and represents a clear threat to the residents of our community,” said Patricia H. Hyde, Acting Field Office Director for ERO Boston. “Additionally, Pineda has been previously removed from the U.S. twice. He has shown a blatant disregard for our immigration laws and our state laws. We cannot allow New England to become a safe haven for the world’s bad actors. ICE Boston will continue to arrest and remove criminal alien threats to our neighbors.”
Pineda is currently being held by ICE pending removal proceedings.
While some state and local jurisdictions have adopted sanctuary policies that limit cooperation with ICE, this arrest highlights the continued efforts by federal agents to enforce immigration law and prioritize public safety — even when others refuse to do so.
