Operation Charlotte's Web: Federal Immigration Agents Surge in North Carolina

Sun Nov 16 2025 22:54:24 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Border Patrol's recent initiative in Charlotte has led to over 80 arrests, causing community unrest as federal immigration agents focus on areas around churches and apartment complexes.

A surge of federal immigration enforcement in Charlotte, North Carolina, dubbed 'Operation Charlotte’s Web,' has resulted in more than 80 arrests, raising concerns among local leaders and residents. The operation, led by Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino, targets individuals with alleged criminal histories, yet its tactics and implications have sparked heated debates and fears within the community, especially around sensitive areas such as places of worship.

In a major immigration enforcement initiative, Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino announced over 80 arrests in Charlotte, North Carolina's largest city, during operations that have raised concerns among local residents regarding the presence of federal agents near community spots such as churches and residential areas.

'Operation Charlotte's Web,' likened to a popular children's book, has drawn attention for its assertive tactics aimed at individuals labeled as 'criminal illegal aliens,' which can include residents without legal permissions but with past criminal records.

Bovino took to social media, sharing images of the arrests, including a notable case involving an individual with a history of drunk driving. “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,” he tweeted.

This operation comes in the context of an ongoing immigration enforcement surge led by the Trump administration, which has faced condemnation from local leaders who argue that these actions occur despite decreasing crime rates in the region.

Concerns arise regarding the method and the potential for community unrest, as past operations in cities like Chicago and Los Angeles resulted in lawsuits and mismanagement of arrests. Residents have expressed fears over the tactics being employed, given previous incidents involving the use of chemical agents and allegations of excessive force.

Local community leaders reported that the operation's focus included an alarming interaction with faith communities, as city council member-elect JD Mazuera Arias highlighted: “Houses of worship. I mean, that’s just awful. These are sanctuaries for people who are looking for hope.”

Despite a barrage of reports on CBP's activities, the Department of Homeland Security has been reluctant to provide detailed information about the arrests, further complicating the local response. As the operation unfolds, discussions surrounding safety, justice, and community rights will be crucial.