A Boston judge found a federal law enforcement agent in contempt for detaining a suspect during an active court proceeding, ruling it violated the suspect’s due process rights. The agent arrested the individual as he exited the courthouse, leading the judge to dismiss the original charge of false statements on a driver’s license application.
The judge called the violation “serious” and filed a contempt charge against the agent, with local prosecutors set to review the matter further. The suspect’s attorney condemned the agent’s actions, stressing that such conduct undermines justice.
This case highlights ongoing tensions between local and federal authorities over courtroom arrests and cooperation.