Over 130 Immigration Arrests Made in Charlotte Amid Enforcement Blitz

Tue Nov 18 2025 00:47:25 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

An immigration sweep in Charlotte, NC has led to over 130 arrests, part of a larger strategy by the Trump administration to target sanctuary cities. Local leaders and residents express concern over the implications of such enforcement actions.

In a recent wave of immigration enforcement, U.S. agents have arrested over 130 individuals in Charlotte, North Carolina, as part of a broader strategy aimed at sanctuary cities. Critics argue the crackdown increases fear in the community and targets the immigrant population unfairly, while supporters call for adherence to the law.

U.S. immigration agents have made more than 130 arrests in Charlotte, North Carolina, as part of an ongoing enforcement initiative that began last weekend. This crackdown comes in the wake of similar operations carried out in cities like Los Angeles and Chicago.

The enforcement is part of President Trump’s broader strategy targeting Democratic-run cities that maintain sanctuary policies. The Department of Homeland Security has chosen Charlotte for this operation due to its local policies that limit cooperation between local law enforcement and immigration agents.

Focus on Charlotte

Charlotte's leadership, established under a Democratic mayor, has resisted federal immigration interventions, with its police department not assisting in immigration enforcement and local jails refusing to detain individuals solely based on immigration status. This response is highlighted further by local tragedies, such as a recent stabbing incident involving a Ukrainian refugee, which the Trump administration cites as evidence of a failure to ensure public safety in these cities.

Community Impact

Local residents and leaders are voicing their concerns over the impact of the recent enforcement blitz. Organizations opposing the raids have trained volunteers to help residents understand their rights and recognize federal agents. Some business owners reported declines in customers due to fears surrounding immigration enforcement.

North Carolina’s Governor, Democrat Josh Stein, has criticized the federal actions, arguing they deepen divisions within the community and provoke unwarranted fear among immigrants, who he claims are being targeted based on race. Meanwhile, support for the enforcement measures is echoed by Republican leaders, including Mecklenburg County's Republican Party Chairman, who emphasizes adherence to the rule of law.

Current Landscape of Immigration in Charlotte

Charlotte is experiencing rapid population growth, with almost 950,000 residents, of which approximately 150,000 are foreign-born, primarily from Latin America. The recent arrests are sparking significant debate about immigration policy and community relations in the city.