Charlotte, N.C. – Homeland Security officers began targeted immigration enforcement operations in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Friday, resulting in multiple detentions and sparking both support and protest. The operations, part of a broader federal effort, are focused on individuals with outstanding deportation orders and those who pose a threat to public safety, according to officials.
The enforcement actions come as the Trump management continues to prioritize immigration enforcement across the country, including in cities and counties that have policies limiting cooperation with federal authorities. The operations are intended to address concerns about rising crime and to enforce existing immigration laws, but have also raised fears among immigrant communities and drawn criticism from local leaders.
Mecklenburg County Republican Party Chairman Kyle Kirby praised the federal actions,stating that Democratic officials “have abandoned their duty to uphold law and order” and are “demonizing the brave men and women of federal law enforcement.” He added, “Let us be clear: President Trump was given a mandate in the 2024 election to secure our borders. Individuals who are in this country legally have nothing to fear.”
Though, democratic Gov. Josh Stein expressed concern that the majority of those detained in similar operations have no criminal convictions, and some are U.S. citizens. He urged residents to document any “inappropriate behavior” by officers and report it to local law enforcement.The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has stated it is not involved in federal immigration enforcement.
Several hundred people gathered Saturday in a Charlotte park to protest the operations. The increased federal presence is raising questions about the impact on local communities and the resources needed to support those affected, as advocates seek ways to provide legal assistance and other support “to keep them afloat, as we don’t know how long this is going to last.”
