NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Federal immigration officers are withdrawing from an intense crackdown in Louisiana, termed Catahoula Crunch, that has been ongoing since December and has drawn significant local protests aimed at protecting the city’s immigrant communities. The operation has faced backlash for its aggressive tactics and intentions of making thousands of arrests in an environment fraught with fear.
Documents acquired by The Associated Press reveal that while the Louisiana operation concluded, federal officers are being diverted to Minneapolis. This shift is in response to alleged immigration fraud tied to the Somali community in Minnesota, where reports say over 2,000 officers are involved in what is being labeled the largest immigration enforcement action in U.S. history.
The LA operation initially raised alarms among immigrant residents, prompting community demonstrations against the program and its tactics. Reports indicate around 370 arrests were made under the Louisiana operation, despite a target of 5,000 arrests set by those managing the crackdown. Many of those affected had no criminal records, and there was evidence that ICE monitored online criticisms of their activities.
This sudden withdrawal from Louisiana reflects the evolving landscape of immigration enforcement amid heightened scrutiny and the challenges faced by communities. Critics, including local Democratic leaders, expressed concerns that the targets set were unrealistic and detrimental to community relations.
With federal authorities now shifting focus towards Minneapolis, it becomes essential to observe how this next phase of enforcement unfolds and its potential implications for local communities amid ongoing discussions around immigration reform and public safety.
