Trump government launches ICE crackdown in New Orleans
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said, “The men and women of DHS law enforcement have landed in The Big Easy. Operation Catahoula Crunch will remove the worst of the worst from New Orleans, Louisiana, after the city’s sanctuary politicians have ignored the rule of law.”
However, local officials criticized the sweep, claiming it creates an atmosphere of fear and anxiety. New Orleans City Council member Lesli Harris argued that the numbers cited by ICE are unrealistic and that existing local law enforcement is already effectively reducing crime. She noted, “I think what they’re talking about is not realistic. I don’t think that there are 5,000 worst of the worst out there. ... I don’t see the data backing the numbers.” Harris added that the city’s police efforts have lowered crime rates to levels not seen since the 1970s, making additional federal intervention unnecessary, saying, “We’re at the lowest amount of crime since the 1970s because of the efforts of our (New Orleans Police Department), assisted by the state police. I don’t think we need additional law enforcement here in order to round up people.”
ICE officials defended the operation as essential for public safety. Operation commander Gregory Bovino stated, “We are here arresting criminals who should not be here. The state, local and federal law enforcement partners in Louisiana are excellent partners!!”
The first raid took place at a local shipyard, where 25 undocumented workers from Honduras were detained due to their employer’s failure to provide proper documentation. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) noted that some detainees had criminal records including prior illegal entry, DUI offenses, discharge of a firearm in city limits, and providing false information to law enforcement.
HSI Deputy Special Agent in Charge Matt Wright emphasized, “This operation demonstrates our commitment to enforcing immigration laws and holding employers accountable. We will continue to investigate and take action against those who fail to comply with the law.”
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