Harvard professor detained by ICE after Boston synagogue shooting to voluntarily depart from US

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed on Wednesday that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detained a Harvard Law School visiting professor linked to an October incident outside a Boston-area synagogue.

Carlos Portugal Gouva, a Brazilian citizen, was taken into custody on October 2 after authorities said he discharged a BB gun near the synagogue the day before Yom Kippur. At the time of the arrest, Gouva told law enforcement he was "hunting rats." On November 13, he pleaded guilty to illegal use of the air rifle, while other charges, including disturbing the peace, disorderly conduct, and property damage, were dropped.

Harvard University temporarily suspended Gouva as the investigation unfolded. The Harvard Crimson reported that synagogue officials clarified the incident was not motivated by antisemitism.

Two weeks after the episode, Gouvas J-1 visa was revoked by the Department of State. ICEs Boston Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) detained him Wednesday, and he consented to voluntarily leave the United States rather than face deportation, DHS said.

Working and studying in the United States is a privilege, not a right, DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated. Acts of violence against the Jewish community are unacceptable and threaten the safety of law-abiding citizens. DHS has no obligation to allow individuals who commit such acts to remain in the country.

While reports about Gouvas motives varied, officials emphasized that violence against Americans or acts of antisemitism will not be tolerated. South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem remarked that anyone attempting anti-American or antisemitic acts in the U.S. should reconsider, as such behavior will not be welcomed.

Gouva held a visiting professorship at Harvard Law School, while his primary role was as an associate professor at the University of So Paulo Law School and CEO of IDGlobal in Brazil. His work in Brazil influenced Supreme Court decisions, addressed violence against Indigenous communities, and included leadership roles in multiple Brazilian organizations, such as the Fulbright Commission and the Brazilian Students Organization.

Author: Ethan Caldwell