Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) joined forces to tackle illegal immigration in a conservative state, with 84 illegal aliens arrested during a major operation that netted gang members and convicted felons.
The collaborative effort between state troopers and federal agents conducted approximately 150 traffic stops in South Nashville’s predominantly Latino neighborhoods, uncovering illegal firearms, narcotics, and individuals with criminal backgrounds.
The multi-day operation targeted areas with histories of traffic violations and suspected gang activity.
Among those detained was a known gang member and a 39-year-old Mexican illegal with multiple prior deportations and felony convictions, demonstrating the operation’s focus on public safety threats rather than random enforcement.
ICE New Orleans Field Office Director Mellissa Harper emphasized the targeted nature of the operation, stating:
“Protecting the safety and security of our communities remains a top priority for ICE. As part of our ongoing mission to uphold U.S. immigration laws, our targeted enforcement operations are specifically focused on individuals who threaten public safety or national security. These efforts help ensure that our neighborhoods remain safe and that immigration laws are enforced.”
The operation revealed concerning issues beyond immigration violations. Many drivers stopped were operating vehicles without valid licenses, creating additional public safety hazards on Tennessee roads.
Authorities also discovered illegal narcotics and weapons during the stops, further justifying the enforcement action.
Moreover, liberal Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell complained about the operation, claiming it “terrorized” the community.
Yet, ICE maintains that its officers are highly trained professionals committed to strategic enforcement actions that support community trust while fulfilling their duty to enforce federal immigration laws.
According to the agency, officers recovered illegal firearms and drugs during the operation, demonstrating the criminal element present among some of those detained.
The agency reported that many of the drivers stopped were in the country illegally, validating concerns about inadequate border security under the current administration.
The operation highlights the ongoing struggle between federal immigration enforcement and sanctuary-style policies in liberal-led cities.
Nashville’s mayor and the Metro Nashville Police Department distanced themselves from the operation, with O’Connell stating that no MNPD personnel participated in the enforcement action.
Following the arrests, large charter buses transported detainees to federal immigration detention facilities, where they will face proper immigration proceedings according to federal law.
The operation continued into the week with additional enforcement actions on Monday night and Tuesday morning.
This targeted enforcement action demonstrates how, when properly resourced and supported, cooperation between state and federal authorities can effectively address illegal immigration issues at the local level.
