Florida Sees Nearly 800 Arrests in Large-Scale Immigration Operation Led by ICE and Local Law Enforcement

US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced Saturday that nearly 800 individuals were arrested in Florida during a large-scale, multi-agency immigration enforcement operation conducted over four days.

Described by ICE’s Miami office as a “highly successful” initiative, the operation represents what officials called a “first-of-its-kind partnership” between federal and state law enforcement.

The initiative, known as “Operation Tidal Wave,” involved more than 200 state, county, and municipal law enforcement agencies across Florida. These agencies have entered into collaboration agreements with ICE under the 287(g) Program, which allows local authorities to assist in enforcing aspects of federal immigration law. Over 70 additional agencies reportedly have agreements pending.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis praised the effort on social media, describing it as an example of the state working closely with the Department of Homeland Security to strengthen immigration enforcement and deportations.

“Florida is leading the nation in active cooperation with the Trump administration for immigration enforcement and deportation operations,” DeSantis wrote.

The arrests occurred against the backdrop of President Donald Trump’s broader national focus on tightening immigration enforcement. Since taking office, Trump has emphasized rapid deportations and encouraged partnerships between local and federal agencies to support his administration’s policies.

The operation included participation from a range of Florida agencies such as the Florida Highway Patrol, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Florida State Guard, the Florida Department of Agricultural Law Enforcement, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Even campus police at multiple universities in Florida have recently signed onto ICE agreements, raising concerns among some international students.

While supporters of the operation view it as a critical step toward enhanced public safety and immigration control, critics have voiced concerns over its broader impact on communities. Thomas Kennedy, a spokesperson for the Florida Immigrant Coalition, said the program pressures local law enforcement to assume immigration duties, potentially diverting resources from traditional policing roles. Kennedy argued that these efforts could foster fear among immigrant communities and deter individuals from reporting crimes.

In some cities, local officials expressed reluctance but cited state requirements mandating cooperation with federal immigration authorities. The city council of Doral, home to the country’s largest Venezuelan immigrant population, unanimously approved an ICE collaboration agreement earlier this month under what they described as legal obligation rather than voluntary support.

The Justice Department has also indicated it would investigate and potentially prosecute local officials who do not comply with federal immigration enforcement efforts. Recent cases include the arrest of a Milwaukee County judge and allegations against a former New Mexico magistrate judge and his wife involving obstruction related to immigration enforcement actions.

ICE officials, including Acting Director Todd Lyons, have emphasized the unprecedented nature of Operation Tidal Wave, citing the comprehensive cooperation among federal, state, and local agencies. Lyons highlighted that this large-scale mission is one of the first of its size, aiming to strengthen community safety and address public safety threats.

With input from CNN and the Hill.