Governor Healey Orders Inspection of State Shelters After Arrest with Weapon and Drugs
Governor Maura Healey is taking decisive action following a disturbing incident at a state-run shelter in Revere. A Dominican national, Leonardo Andujar Sanchez, was apprehended with a loaded AR-15 rifle and significant amounts of fentanyl at the Quality Inn on Morris Street, where the hotel was operating as an emergency shelter. This alarming discovery has prompted Governor Healey to demand a thorough inspection of all shelter units, commencing with the Revere facility, and a comprehensive review of the intake procedures in place.
Sanchez, 28, was taken into custody by Revere police on December 27 and faces a slew of charges related to firearms and drug offenses, including trafficking. Immediate action was taken to remove him from the shelter, and he is currently being held without bail as per court records.
Governor’s Response
Governor Healey expressed outrage over the exploitation of the shelter system for criminal activities, emphasizing the need for enhanced measures to prevent such incidents from reoccurring. She has been actively coordinating with local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities to address this critical situation.
In a statement released by her office, Governor Healey underscored the importance of upholding the integrity and safety of the state-run shelter system. She highlighted the ongoing dialogue with state and federal law enforcement agencies, shedding light on Sanchez’s illegal entry into the country within the past year.
Call for Action
The Governor’s call for a rigorous inspection of all shelter facilities and a comprehensive review of intake protocols signals a proactive stance towards safeguarding vulnerable populations and maintaining security within the shelter system. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by criminal elements exploiting shelter resources for illicit activities.
Previous Incidents
Sanchez’s arrest is not an isolated case within the state shelter systems, as evidenced by the prior indictment of Cory Alvarez for a heinous crime at a shelter in Rockland. The recurrence of such incidents underscores the pressing need for enhanced vigilance and accountability in ensuring the safety and well-being of shelter occupants.
Governor Healey’s swift response to this alarming episode reflects a commitment to upholding public safety and addressing systemic vulnerabilities within the shelter system. By initiating a comprehensive inspection and review process, she aims to fortify security measures and prevent any further instances of criminal exploitation within state-run shelters. The Governor’s proactive approach underscores the imperative of collaborative efforts to safeguard vulnerable populations and uphold the integrity of emergency shelter operations.