Customs and Border Protection Launches Aggressive Immigration Enforcement in Charlotte

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has intensified its immigration enforcement efforts in Charlotte, North Carolina, seizing dozens of individuals identified as undocumented immigrants during targeted operations. This marks a significant shift in immigration enforcement strategy, as CBP has assumed responsibilities traditionally held by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The operations took place over the weekend and resulted in approximately 75 arrests on Saturday alone.

This deployment is part of a broader initiative following a leadership change within ICE, where the Department of Homeland Security replaced a number of field office directors with CBP officials. The move aims to streamline immigration enforcement operations across the United States. Previously, CBP had led similar efforts in Chicago, marking it as the first city to implement these changes. Under this new structure, CBP will manage ICE field offices in several other major cities, including Washington, D.C., Denver, and Los Angeles.

Operation Charlotte’s Web has drawn significant attention, particularly because of the circumstances surrounding the arrests. According to reports, the Department of Homeland Security sent CBP agents to Charlotte after the city failed to comply with approximately 1,400 detainer requests from immigration authorities. The head of the operations, Gregory Bovino, shared updates on social media regarding the apprehensions, which have raised concerns among local residents and activists.

Civil rights groups are preparing to contest the legality of these operations. Activists gathered in response to reports of aggressive tactics used by agents, including instances where individuals claim to have been arrested despite being U.S. citizens. In a joint statement, Charlotte’s mayor, Vi Lyles, along with leaders from the County Commission and Board of Education, expressed that the arrests have instilled “unnecessary fear and uncertainty” within the community.

The city officials emphasized the importance of public safety, assuring residents that they should feel comfortable contacting local law enforcement without fear of immigration enforcement involvement. “We want people in Charlotte and Mecklenburg County to know we stand with all residents who simply want to go about their lives, contributing to our larger community,” they stated.

Historically, ICE has focused on enforcement actions such as workplace raids and courthouse arrests, while CBP has primarily operated along the borders. The recent switch in strategy highlights a significant philosophical shift in how the U.S. government approaches immigration. Legal experts warn that the increased presence of CBP in urban settings may lead to expedited removals and a reduction in legal safeguards for immigrants.

The changes come amid ongoing debates about immigration policy and enforcement practices. In October 2023, the CBP reported 30,573 encounters at the U.S. border, a figure significantly lower than previous months under the Biden administration. This tactical change reflects a broader initiative by the Trump administration to integrate CBP leadership into ICE operations, effectively blurring the lines between border and interior enforcement.

Immigration attorneys, such as Richard T. Herman, have advised immigrants to seek legal representation more than ever, stating, “For immigrants in Ohio and across the United States, the message is clear: be informed, be represented, and be prepared.” As these operations continue, the implications for immigrant communities remain a focal point of concern and discussion.