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DHS Launches Immigration Enforcement Operation in New Orleans

2025-12-03

The BareStory

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has launched an immigration enforcement operation in New Orleans, Louisiana, titled "Operation Catahoula Crunch." The operation, initiated by the Trump administration, began on December 3.

According to the DHS, the action targets immigrants who have been arrested for crimes and subsequently released by local authorities due to what the department described as sanctuary policies. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated that the operation’s targets include individuals arrested for offenses such as home invasion, armed robbery, and rape. In a separate statement, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem accused the previous administration of using the department to allow terrorists into the country.

The operation follows a statement last week by New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick, who characterized illegal immigration as a "civil issue." In response, Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill affirmed that obstructing federal immigration enforcement is a state crime. On December 1, a demonstration against potential immigration raids was held at New Orleans City Hall.

In a related development, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued new guidance pausing immigration processes for nationals from 19 countries. The directive applies to individuals who entered the U.S. on or after January 20, 2021, halting their green card and citizenship applications pending a re-review for security risks. The affected countries include Afghanistan, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, and Venezuela.

Left Perspective

  • The operation targets immigrants arrested for serious crimes.
  • Local "sanctuary policies" are seen as obstructing federal law.
  • Enhanced security vetting is a key priority.

Right Perspective

  • Illegal immigration is viewed as a civil matter for local police.
  • There is public opposition to the federal enforcement actions.
  • The operation is part of a broad shift in immigration policy.

How it may affect me

As a U.S. reader:

• Immigrants from 19 countries, including Haiti and Venezuela, who entered the U.S. after Jan. 20, 2021, face a pause on their green card and citizenship applications.

• Federal operations targeting immigrants arrested for serious crimes may affect public safety in cities where local authorities had previously released these individuals from custody.

• Legal conflicts between federal and local officials over immigration enforcement could change how police departments in some U.S. cities operate.

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