NewsPalm Beach CountyRegion S Palm Beach CountyBoynton Beach

Actions

19 Haitian nationals arrested near Boynton Beach

Vessel suspected in operation fled scene
U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Posted at 5:46 PM, Jan 22, 2021
and last updated 2021-01-22 21:06:43-05

BOYNTON BEACH, Fla. — The U.S. Customs and Border Protection said Friday that 19 Haitian nationals were arrested near Boynton Beach in a maritime smuggling event.

The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office said they received a report around midnight that a vessel landed at a boat ramp located at Harvey Oyer Park.

Witnesses said they saw the boat offloading the migrants.

PBSO spokeswoman Teri Barbera said attempts to locate the vessel were unsuccessful, and it was last seen heading east out of the inlet back to the ocean.

"We are currently working with our partner law enforcement agencies in an attempt to identify the vessel and/or smugglers involved in the incident. The investigation is ongoing," according to a statement from Border Patrol.

Officials said 10 women and nine men were taken into custody.

The Haitian nationals were processed for removal proceedings and are being held in federal custody. There were no reported injuries involved in the incident.

Border Patrol said they received assistance from Boynton Beach police and PBSO in the case.