Major U.S. Cities Targeted in ICE Raids Under Trump Administration
Nationwide Immigration Crackdown Sparks Controversy, Arrests Surge Across Key Metropolitan Areas
Major U.S. Cities Targeted in ICE Raids Under Trump Administration
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted its largest single-day operation under the Trump administration, arresting 956 people on Sunday.
The Trump administration has resumed aggressive immigration enforcement following the President’s return to office. ICE reported 956 arrests, though NBC News found the actual number may be closer to 1,200, with 52% classified as “criminal arrests.” Nonviolent offenders and undocumented individuals without criminal records were also among those detained.
Surge in Arrests and Quotas
The following day, ICE reported an additional 1,179 arrests, with 853 detainers issued. Sources revealed a new quota of 1,200–1,500 arrests per day across ICE’s 25 field offices, escalating concerns about law-abiding migrants being targeted.
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Key Cities Impacted
New York City
Raids began Tuesday, led by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who shared updates on social media highlighting the arrest of a suspect with multiple violent charges. Mayor Eric Adams confirmed cooperation with federal authorities in specific criminal cases but reiterated the city’s commitment to protecting law-abiding residents, including immigrants.
Chicago
Operations in Chicago focused on individuals with prior convictions, including murder and sexual assault. Despite the city’s sanctuary status, which restricts local law enforcement from assisting federal agents, 10 federal teams conducted arrests across the city.
Phoenix and San Diego
Both cities witnessed coordinated efforts by ICE, the DEA, and other federal agencies. Images shared on social media showcased agents apprehending individuals in targeted operations.
Denver
A raid in Denver targeted a makeshift club linked to the Venezuelan gang “Tren de Aragua,” resulting in 41 undocumented individuals being detained.
Miami
Miami raids led to the arrest of individuals with pending violent charges, including aggravated assault and firearms offenses. The arrests were praised as a collaboration to ensure community safety.
Atlanta
Arrests in Atlanta included the detention of a Honduran immigrant awaiting asylum. His family criticized the operation, highlighting his valid work permit and lack of criminal record.
Texas Cities
ICE targeted multiple cities in North Texas, apprehending at least 84 individuals. Many arrests were classified as collateral, involving individuals found alongside primary targets.
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Public Reaction and Concerns
Critics argue that the raids are sweeping up individuals without criminal backgrounds, creating fear within immigrant communities. While some officials, such as Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, support deporting violent criminals, they oppose targeting law-abiding migrants.
Growing Arrest Figures
Since the inauguration, 4,829 individuals have been arrested in immigration crackdowns, averaging 753 arrests daily, far exceeding the Biden administration’s daily average of 282 arrests in September 2024.
Upcoming Raids
According to sources, three U.S. cities will be targeted weekly under a directive involving federal agencies, including the FBI and DEA.
The Debate Over Immigration Policy
As immigration enforcement intensifies, the divide over how to handle undocumented individuals continues to deepen. While some cities and states reaffirm their sanctuary policies, others cooperate with federal efforts to apprehend those with criminal histories.
