Border Patrol Operations in Charlotte Raise Controversy Amid Immigrant Raids

Sun Nov 16 2025 23:47:47 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The recent arrests by Border Patrol in Charlotte have led to community outrage and questions about the tactics used by federal agents.

Border Patrol's operation named 'Operation Charlotte's Web' resulted in over 80 arrests in North Carolina's largest city, sparking outrage among local residents and leaders. Critics highlight concerns over the targeting of vulnerable communities, especially in sanctuaries like churches. The operation has raised questions similar to those faced by previous operations in Chicago and Los Angeles regarding the use of force and community safety.

A top Border Patrol commander heralded numerous arrests in North Carolina's largest city on Sunday, as Charlotte residents reported encounters with federal immigration agents near churches and apartment complexes.

The Trump administration has targeted this Democratic city of about 950,000 for an immigration enforcement surge, claiming it combats crime, despite fierce objections from local leaders who note declining crime rates.

Gregory Bovino, who led similar operations in Chicago, took to social media to document over 80 arrests made during this Charlotte operation. He shared images of individuals deemed 'criminal illegal aliens' by the Trump administration, including one with a history of drunk driving.

We arrested him, taking him off the streets of Charlotte so he can't continue to ignore our laws and drive intoxicated on the same roads you and your loved ones are on, Bovino posted on social media.

This effort, dubbed Operation Charlotte's Web, has raised many questions regarding the operation's duration, the treatment of detainees, and the tactics employed, which have faced criticism in past operations.

Bovino’s previous operations in cities like Chicago and Los Angeles have sparked numerous lawsuits and investigations over the use of force, including the deployment of chemical agents. Democratic leaders argue that these federal agents' presence increases community tensions and can lead to violence.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has not provided ample details about who they are arresting in Charlotte or their treatment during these operations. Community development representatives reported an overwhelming number of activities by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents, particularly around vulnerable areas.

City council member-elect JD Mazuera Arias expressed his dismay over federal agents targeting places of worship: These are sanctuaries for people who are looking for hope and faith in dark times and who no longer can feel safe because of the gross violation of people's right to worship.

As the operation continues, the local community grapples with concerns regarding immigrant rights and the implications of federal enforcement actions.