Federal immigration agents detained over 80 individuals in Charlotte, North Carolina, during a weekend enforcement surge dubbed "Operation Charlotte's Web."
US Customs and Border Protection Commander Gregory Bovino announced the arrests on social media, including a man with alleged drunk driving convictions.
"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 wrote on X.
The Department of Homeland Security cited North Carolina's release of nearly 1,400 ICE detainees due to sanctuary policies as justification, despite Charlotte's status as a certified welcoming city rather than a sanctuary jurisdiction.
Several church members fled into woods during yard work at an east Charlotte church when agents arrived and detained one man, according to The Charlotte Observer quoting the pastor.
"We thought church was safe and nothing [was] gonna happen," a 15-year-old witness told the newspaper.
Nonprofit Camino reported clinic cancellations as residents avoided school, work, and appointments out of fear.
Spokesperson Paola Garcia emphasized the community's contributions.
"Latinos love this country. They came here to escape socialism and communism, and they’re hard workers and people of faith," Garcia said.
City council member-elect JD Mazuera Arias called targeting worship sites a violation of sanctuaries.
Mayor Li Vyles and officials condemned the operation for sowing unnecessary fear in the diverse city of about 950,000, where 17% of residents are foreign-born.
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated the surge removes public safety threats, with President Trump and Secretary Kristi Noem acting where local politicians allegedly fail.
"President Trump and Secretary [Kristi] Noem will step up to protect Americans when sanctuary politicians won't," the DHS said.
Officials noted organizations ready to provide legal guidance on immigration.
Internal documents suggested armored vehicles and special teams.
Similar operations in Chicago, ongoing since September, and Los Angeles faced excessive force concerns, though defended by officials.
DHS offered limited arrestee details and no operation duration; New Orleans is reportedly next with up to 200 agents.