Resident recounts volunteers helping two immigrants released into Youngstown after ICE custody
Loading...
Summary
At Mahoning County27s Feb. 12 meeting, resident Janet Cobb said two men detained in Maine were released into Youngstown and left near the bus station; volunteers provided clothes, food and bus fare to get them home. Commissioners said they would follow up.
Janet Cobb, a resident who identified herself during public comment, told the Mahoning County Board of Commissioners that two men detained in Maine were routed through the immigration detention network and — contrary to a court order to return them to Maine — were released in Youngstown.
"It's a story of unconstitutional government action," Cobb said, describing how the men were discharged in Youngstown in cold weather without adequate clothing or money. Cobb said a network of volunteers in the Youngstown area sheltered the men, provided clothing and bus fare and helped them travel back to Massachusetts.
A second speaker, who identified himself as Chris, said the volunteers picked the men up at the bus station, provided shoes, coats and money, and helped them reach Framingham, Mass., by Feb. 4.
County officials did not dispute the account on the record but asked for follow-up. A commissioner said staff would look into the matter and follow up with Cobb and the individuals who raised the report.
The board did not take formal action on the account during the meeting. Commissioners allowed three-minute public-comment slots and noted they generally permit public remarks even when they touch on state or national matters.
