DHS Blames Wisconsin Sanctuary Policies for Deaths of Two Teens

Noelia Saray Martinez-Avila, a 30-year-old illegal immigrant from Honduras, faces deportation and multiple charges including homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle after driving the wrong way on a Wisconsin highway while intoxicated, resulting in a crash that killed two teenagers, Hallie Helgeson and Brady Heiling. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have issued a detainer against Martinez-Avila, who has a prior drunk driving conviction and whose license had been revoked before the crash. Assistant DHS Secretary Tricia McLaughlin criticized the local sanctuary policies in Dane County, Wisconsin, for not honoring ICE detainers, which she argues allowed Martinez-Avila to remain free and ultimately caused these tragic deaths. The crash occurred on July 20 on I-90 when Martinez-Avila collided with the vehicle carrying the victims. Martinez-Avila had a blood-alcohol level more than double the legal limit and was supposed to have an ignition interlock device to prevent her from driving while intoxicated. DHS officials emphasize their commitment to justice and the removal of public safety threats under Secretary Noem's leadership.