Immigration Arrest of Harvard Law Professor Carlos Portugal Gouvea

Carlos Portugal Gouvea, a Brazilian citizen and visiting professor at Harvard Law School, was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents following an incident on October 2, 2025, where he fired a BB gun outside Temple Beth Zion in Brookline, Massachusetts. Gouvea claimed he was attempting to hunt rats when he discharged the weapon. The incident led to charges of illegally discharging a BB gun, disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace, and malicious damage to personal property.

WCVB - Boston NewsWashington Times

Following his arrest, Gouvea accepted a plea deal on November 13, 2025, which resulted in the dismissal of a felony and two misdemeanor counts in exchange for a guilty plea to the charge of illegally discharging an air rifle. Subsequently, the U.S. Department of State revoked his visa on October 16, 2025. Gouvea agreed to voluntarily depart the United States rather than face formal deportation, as confirmed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

WCVB - Boston News

In light of the incident, Harvard University placed Gouvea on administrative leave pending an investigation. The university had previously highlighted his contributions to environmental and social justice in Brazil. Despite the serious nature of the incident, leaders at Temple Beth Zion indicated they did not perceive antisemitism in Gouvea's actions, although DHS characterized the incident as a "brazen, violent act of antisemitism."

Washington Times

Tricia McLaughlin, an assistant secretary at DHS, stated, “It is a privilege to work and study in the United States, not a right. There is no room in the United States for brazen, violent acts of antisemitism like this.” This statement reflects the government's stance on the incident and its broader implications for foreign nationals in the U.S.

Washington Times

The incident occurs against a backdrop of ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and Harvard University, particularly regarding the university's response to antisemitism and its diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Critics argue that the administration's actions may be politically motivated, targeting institutions that oppose its policies.

Washington Times

While Gouvea's explanation for the incident was accepted by the synagogue, the DHS's interpretation of the event as antisemitic raises questions about the motivations behind the arrest and subsequent visa revocation. There is also a lack of clarity regarding the specific circumstances that led to the initial police response and the subsequent involvement of federal immigration authorities.

Washington Times

• “It is a privilege to work and study in the United States, not a right. There is no room in the United States for brazen, violent acts of antisemitism like this,” — Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary, Department of Homeland Security

Washington Times

This case highlights the complexities surrounding immigration enforcement, legal accountability, and the intersection of academic freedom and public safety in the United States.

Washington Times