Family members say Bristol County man, legal resident, in ICE custody after going on vacation

A local family is looking for the public’s help after they say a Bristol County resident is being held by ICE.

According to family and a GoFundMe fundraiser, New Bedford’s Rui Murras has been a resident of the United States since he was 2 years old and is a productive member of society.

“He has a good job, pays his taxes, and lives with his longtime girlfriend. He is a legal resident with a valid green card.”

Family states that Murras traveled out of the country on vacation and was detained by Border Patrol on his return over a previous record.

“He is now in ICE custody and being held in a county jail out of state. Rui is not a criminal. He is a good person who does not deserve to be in jail while this gets cleared up.”

Those who know Rui say that he is being treated well, and he is safe, but want him home.

“We are doing all we can to get Rui back home. We are asking for any help you can offer – advice, contacts, donations and sharing his story. Unfortunately, navigating the legal system is a large financial burden so we are asking on his behalf in order to help with costs. We never imagined we would be in this situation, and we are so grateful for all the support.”

The fundraiser has raised over $11,000 as of this writing.

We are attempting to get more information on the circumstances surrounding Murras’ detention.