ICE detains owner of Stow restaurant

Published: Thursday, January 29, 2026 at 5:34 pm

ICE Detains Stow Cafe Owner, Sparking Community Concern

Stow, Massachusetts, is grappling with the detention of a local business owner by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Max Fernandes, identified as the owner of Stow Cafe, was detained Wednesday morning, according to local authorities and lawmakers. The Stow Police Department confirmed ICE's involvement but stated it was not notified of the operation and had no role in the arrest.

ICE issued a detainer for Fernandes following a 2024 incident recently resolved in Concord District Court. The police department cited a 2017 state Supreme Judicial Court ruling that bars local police from holding individuals solely based on civil immigration detainers. The department has stated it has no role in immigration enforcement.

State Senator Jamie Eldridge and State Representative Kate Hogan are working to assist Fernandes' family. Details surrounding the circumstances of the detention remain unclear. Online records for Concord District Court do not show any recent cases involving Fernandes. ICE spokespeople have not yet commented on the matter.

Fernandes, who opened Stow Cafe in 2011, immigrated to Massachusetts from Brazil in 2005. He has a teenage daughter and triplets. A Reddit user reported witnessing the arrest, describing Fernandes as a hard worker and family man. The location of Fernandes' detention is currently unknown.

BNN's Perspective:

This situation highlights the complex interplay between federal immigration enforcement and local law enforcement. While the legal framework is clear regarding local police involvement, the impact on the community is significant. The lack of transparency from ICE and the uncertainty surrounding the detention raise concerns about due process and the potential disruption to a local business and family. A balanced approach is needed, one that respects the rule of law while also considering the human impact of immigration enforcement actions.

Keywords: ICE, detention, Stow Cafe, Max Fernandes, immigration, arrest, Stow Police Department, Jamie Eldridge, Kate Hogan, Concord District Court, detainer, Massachusetts, immigration enforcement, business owner, Brazil, deportation, Burlington, Trump administration

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