Operation Charlotte's Web: Federal Immigration Surge Triggers Controversy

Sun Nov 16 2025 23:23:31 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Charlotte faces federal immigration enforcement as Border Patrol makes dozens of arrests, raising community tensions and questions about local tactics.

On Sunday, the U.S. Border Patrol launched 'Operation Charlotte's Web' in North Carolina, resulting in over 80 arrests in predominantly immigrant neighborhoods. Local leaders expressed outrage over the targeting of sensitive areas like churches and apartment complexes. This surge sparks existing debates over immigration policy, law enforcement tactics, and community safety, especially as the Trump administration focuses on cities with declining crime rates to initiate these operations.

A top Border Patrol commander, Gregory Bovino, announced over 80 arrests in North Carolina's largest city, following complaints from residents of Charlotte about immigration agents near churches and apartment complexes.

The Trump administration has targeted Charlotte, claiming these actions are necessary to combat crime, despite local leaders resisting the initiative amid a backdrop of declining crime rates.

Bovino shared updates on social media, showcasing arrests of individuals labeled as 'criminal illegal aliens,' including one man with a history of drunk driving. He stated, 'We arrested him, taking him off the streets of Charlotte so he can’t continue to ignore our laws and drive intoxicated.'

Dubbed 'Operation Charlotte's Web,' the operation's implications led to numerous inquiries regarding the process, including the location of detainees and operational tactics, which faced criticism in previous city operations.

The tactics previously employed in Chicago and Los Angeles have resulted in lawsuits and raised concerns over use of force, particularly in light of accusations that agents inflamed community tensions.

Local leaders have expressed their concerns about the impact on community safety while emphasizing that such actions trivialize the sanctity of worship spaces. City Council member-elect JD Mazuera Arias condemned the agents' focus on religious venues, asserting that 'Houses of worship ... are sanctuaries for people seeking hope.'

Bovino's operations raise further concerns, with the Department of Homeland Security providing limited details on arrests. Community organizations reported an overwhelming increase in CBP activity, indicating broader implications for immigrant communities.