FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LYNN, Mass. – January 31, 2025 – On January 27, Zeneyda Barrera, 18, of Lynn was arrested and charged with assault and battery on a family or household member. The Lynn Police Department followed standard protocol in effectuating the arrest, in line with the governing statute and Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) Domestic Violence Law Enforcement Guidelines. Prior to arraignment, Barrera was referred to the Essex County District Attorney’s Youthful Diversion Program, which allows certain first-time offenders to participate in a variety of programming in lieu of entering the court system.

Eligibility for the program is determined on a case-by-case basis and Barrera was found to meet the eligibility requirements. Barrera was taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) prior to formally entering the diversion program and completing the required program contract.

“Today, my office filed a nolle prosequi – or decision not to prosecute – in this case, as allowed by Rule 16(a) of the Massachusetts Rules of Criminal Procedure,” Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker announced. “This ceases the criminal prosecution of Barrera but allows her to enter and complete the diversion program.”

Tucker added, “This agency has always placed the safety and security of Essex County residents first and foremost and will continue to do so. In addition, we fully support our law enforcement partners, community members, and stakeholders, and we respect the immigration and enforcement process.”

“We hope this means that Zeneyda will be able to come home to her family and we appreciate all the coordination that has taken place with various local, state, and federal agencies,” said Lynn Mayor Jared C. Nicholson. “Public safety is always a priority for us.”

Nicholson added, “What is concerning about cases such as this one is the potential chilling effect it could have on the good policing that the Lynn Police Department does on a regular basis if people are afraid of the implications of contacting law enforcement. The Lynn Police Department does not ask for immigration status and cares deeply about keeping the entire community safe.”

U.S. Congressman Seth Moulton, who represents Massachusetts’ Sixth District, stated, “I am grateful for the cooperation across local, state, and federal authorities, including Senators Warren and Markey. Our priority has always been the wellbeing of this young woman and her family, and I will continue to fight for her to be reunited with her loved ones. This incident underscores the importance of compassion and understanding in our legal processes, particularly for our youth.”

Patrick Callahan, Barrera’s attorney, said, “I would like to thank Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker and the members of his office who reviewed this matter and made the right and just decision to end the prosecution of this case so that she may participate in their diversion program.”

“Furthermore, I would like to thank Representative Seth Moulton and his staff, who provided invaluable assistance in helping Zeneyda and her family navigate this situation,” Callahan added. “We would not have gotten to where we are today without their support. Lastly, I would like to thank Mayor Jared Nicholson, who has provided a tremendous amount of support for Zeneyda’s family all week long.”

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MEDIA CONTACT

Michael Keefe-Feldman

E: Michael.Keefe-Feldman@mass.gov

Office: 978-745-6610

Cell: 781-771-9779