Lawyers for Civil Rights (LCR) today called upon U.S. Attorney Rachael Rollins and Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey to formally open criminal investigations into the political stunt that brought two planeloads of immigrants to Martha’s Vineyard earlier this week.

 LCR now represents more than 30 of the individuals who were victimized by these unlawful actions.
In the letters sent today, LCR detailed how its clients were induced to board airplanes and cross state lines under false pretenses. Individuals, working in concert with State officials, including the Florida Governor, made numerous false promises to LCR’s clients -- including of work opportunities, schooling for their children, and immigration assistance -- in order to induce them to travel.  Once the planes landed, those who had induced individuals to travel under these false pretenses disappeared, leaving the immigrants to learn that the offers of assistance had all been a ruse to exploit them for political purposes.

Particularly given the deliberate, intentional, and concerted nature of the interference by State actors into federal immigration enforcement, LCR emphasizes that a strong and coordinated federal response is required. 

The formal request for an investigation comes on the heels of LCR's staff, volunteers, and pro bono attorneys experiencing threats and harassment. LCR's website -- http://lawyersforcivilrights.org -- was also sabotaged as the organization's attorneys escorted the Vineyard 50 to the base in Cape Cod. 
U.S. Attorney Rollins has stated that she is working with federal authorities in other States that have experienced similar conduct.  

LCR urges immediate law enforcement action to protect the rights of the Vineyard 50, preserve evidence, and hold perpetrators accountable.