New Orleans Mayor Calls Out Federal Immigration Operation Amid Community Fear

Sat Dec 06 2025 04:25:48 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Accusations surface as local mayor-elect responds to federal crackdown that has left citizens frightened and businesses shuttered.

New Orleans' mayor-elect, Helena Moreno, has voiced concerns over a recent federal immigration operation that has caused significant distress among local residents. The crackdown, aimed at apprehending illegal immigrants, has sparked public outcry following alarming incidents, including a video of two masked agents confronting a U.S. citizen, Jacelynn Guzman, who fled in fear. Local officials and community leaders criticize the operation's impact, urging for transparency and accountability in federal actions.

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The newly elected mayor of New Orleans, Helena Moreno, expressed serious concern on Friday regarding a federal immigration crackdown launched this past week, stating it is already having a damaging impact on the community. The operation, aimed at arresting individuals in Southeast Louisiana, has prompted significant backlash, particularly in a city characterized by its diverse population.

Specifically, city officials highlighted the unsettling case of Jacelynn Guzman, a 23-year-old U.S. citizen, who was caught in the fray when two masked federal agents approached her as she was walking home from the grocery store. The encounter was recorded on security footage, showcasing her distress as she fled towards her family’s home, voicing her disbelief at being chased by agents.

Moreno, alongside several local council members and civil rights advocates, condemned the operation, which has seen several hundred agents under Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino targeting over 5,000 individuals. Many Hispanic residents have since voiced their fears that the operation poses a risk to their community, regardless of their legal status.

In response to the widespread fear, Moreno called for regular public briefings from federal agencies to ensure transparency about the operation's methods and targets. She emphasized that without clear data on arrests and detentions, it is challenging to ascertain it's aimed at actual offenders rather than instilling fear within the community.

Moreno’s appeals follow incidents like Guzman’s, which have heightened anxiety among local citizens and resulted in businesses closing their doors as workers remain home, afraid of potential raids. Guzman’s stepfather articulated a deep concern, stating that the incident felt reminiscent of violence, reflecting a growing sentiment among many community members regarding their safety and treatment.

DHS responded, indicating that agents mistook Guzman for a criminal suspect. However, her family maintains that she was targeted solely based on her appearance, escalating fears of racial profiling among residents.