CHARLOTTE, NC — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), in coordination with multiple federal law enforcement agencies, arrested 24 illegal immigrants with criminal records during a targeted enforcement operation in Charlotte from March 1 to March 8, officials announced.
The operation, carried out with assistance from the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), focused on apprehending individuals with violent criminal histories and gang affiliations.
Among those arrested:
- 13 individuals had aggravated felonies or violent offenses on their records.
- Three faced illegal firearms or weapons charges.
- Two were confirmed MS-13 gang members.
- One was charged with assaulting a federal officer.
- Five had committed property crimes.
- 11 individuals had DWI charges.
ICE officials also revealed that six of those arrested had active immigration detainers that were ignored by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Sheriff’s Office (CMSO). Additionally, 18 more targeted individuals with detainers remain at large, as local authorities declined to honor ICE requests to transfer them into federal custody.
“These aliens could have been safely and efficiently transferred into ICE custody if their detainers had been honored,” the agency stated, emphasizing that those still at large pose a continued threat to the community.
ICE reiterated its commitment to enforcing U.S. immigration laws, particularly against individuals who jeopardize public safety. Authorities say they will continue efforts to locate and arrest the remaining fugitives.
Key Points
- 24 illegal immigrants with criminal records were arrested in Charlotte during an ICE-led operation.
- Six had ICE detainers that local authorities did not honor, while 18 more remain at large.
- Those arrested included gang members, violent offenders, and individuals with firearm and DWI charges.