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Federal agents launch 'Operation Charlotte's Web' in North Carolina immigration crackdown
Federal authorities initiated Operation Charlotte's Web in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Saturday, targeting what the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) described as 'criminal illegal aliens' in a Democratic-led city. The move marks the latest expansion of President Donald Trump's promised 'largest deportation program in U.S. history,' following similar operations in Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, and Chicago.
Local backlash and community fears
Charlotte Mayor Li Vyles and other local officials condemned the operation in a joint statement, arguing it has sown 'unnecessary fear and uncertainty' among residents. The crackdown comes despite Charlotte's status as a 'certified welcoming city'-a designation for municipalities committed to immigrant inclusion-though it is not a formal sanctuary city, which limits cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
Around 17% of Charlotte's population is foreign-born, according to Data US. The DHS justified the operation by claiming North Carolina failed to honor nearly 1,400 ICE detainee requests, leading to releases under what the agency called 'sanctuary policies.'
Tactics and early incidents
Internal government documents obtained by CBS News suggest the use of armored vehicles and special operations teams in North Charlotte. Early reports indicate heightened tensions: The Charlotte Observer cited a pastor whose church members fled into nearby woods during a detention incident, with one man apprehended. A 15-year-old witness told the newspaper, 'We thought church was safe and nothing was gonna happen.'
'President Trump and Secretary [Kristi] Noem will step up to protect Americans when sanctuary politicians won't.'
Department of Homeland Security statement
Broader crackdown and criticism
The DHS framed the operation as a response to 'public safety threats,' with Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stating agents were surging to 'ensure Americans are safe.' However, critics-including Democratic Rep. Alma Adams-expressed alarm over the deployment of Border Patrol and ICE agents, warning of potential 'excessive use of force.' Previous operations in Chicago (launched in September) and Los Angeles remain ongoing amid similar controversies.
Local organizations have mobilized to offer legal guidance to affected individuals, though the DHS has not specified how long the raids will continue. New Orleans is reportedly next on the administration's target list, with up to 200 agents slated for deployment, per CBS.
Key figures
- 1,400: ICE detainee requests North Carolina allegedly ignored.
- 17%: Charlotte's foreign-born population share.
- 200+: Agents potentially bound for New Orleans.
