Federal immigration agents began a large-scale operation in Charlotte, North Carolina, targeting what the Department of Homeland Security called "violent criminal illegal aliens." The crackdown, part of President Trump's broader immigration enforcement efforts, involved multiple arrests made by US Border Patrol agents throughout the city. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated that the surge of law enforcement was intended to ensure American safety and remove public safety threats.
While specific numbers of agents or arrests were not disclosed, local officials in the Democratic-run city, including Mayor Vi Lyles, criticized the operation for creating unnecessary fear and uncertainty among the city's immigrant population. They emphasized their commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of all residents.
Despite local condemnations, Republican officials, such as Mecklenburg County Republican Party Chairman Kyle Kirby, supported the federal sweep, citing the 2024 election mandate for border security. Similar immigration raids have previously occurred in other cities, including California, Illinois, Oregon, and New York, with one incident last week involving an assault on Border Patrol officers in Chicago.
Some businesses in Charlotte reportedly closed due to increased federal immigration activity and traffic stops.
