DHS launches major immigration enforcement operation in New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officially launched a massive new immigration enforcement blitz in New Orleans on Wednesday, December 3, formally dubbed 'Operation Catahoula Crunch.'

The operation, which reportedly aims to make approximately 5,000 arrests, marks a significant escalation in the Trump administration's efforts to target sanctuary jurisdictions and remove undocumented immigrants with criminal records.

DHS officials confirmed the launch in a news release, stating the plan is focused on "targeting criminal illegal aliens roaming free thanks to sanctuary policies."

The move follows weeks of speculation about a surge of Border Patrol agents into the city, previously rumored under the name 'Swamp Sweep.'

DHS targets 'monsters' released by local policies

DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin did not mince words when announcing the operation's specific targets.

"It is asinine that these monsters were released back onto New Orleans streets to COMMIT MORE CRIMES and create more victims," McLaughlin said.

"Catahoula Crunch targets include violent criminals who were released after arrest for home invasion, armed robbery, grand theft auto, and r***."

The administration argues that federal intervention is necessary because local consent decrees have long barred the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) and the Orleans Parish Sheriff's Office from assisting in immigration enforcement.

Governor Jeff Landry (R-La) has welcomed the federal help.

Landry, who recently opened a new facility dubbed "Camp 47" to house detainees, told Fox News that he supports the operations and is "welcoming them to come in."

Minneapolis and Chicago are in the crosshairs

The New Orleans blitz is part of a coordinated nationwide strategy.

Reports indicate that the administration is also preparing a targeted crackdown on Somali immigrants in Minneapolis this week.

President Trump has recently ramped up his rhetoric regarding the Somali community, stating in a Cabinet meeting that "they contribute nothing" and that he "doesn't want them in our country."

Meanwhile, Chicago continues to deal with the fallout from its own federal surge, known as 'Operation Midway Blitz.'

That operation recently made headlines when a suburban police officer from Hanover Park was detained by ICE agents for overstaying a tourist visa, though he has since returned to duty.

Local leaders push back against fear

In New Orleans, the operation has exposed deep political divides.

Mayor-elect Helena Moreno, who will be the city's first Hispanic leader, has decried the move and posted legal guidance for residents on her transition website.

"I want our community to know their legal rights and the protections available to them," Moreno stated, warning of potential due process violations.

NOPD Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick also clarified her department's stance, stating that with the city's consent decree ending, officers will still not assist immigration enforcement, viewing it as a civil rather than criminal matter.

Residents have already begun protesting in the streets, with some local businesses posting signs denying entry to federal agents.

Despite the pushback, the administration maintains that "sanctuary policies endanger American communities" and shows no sign of slowing its enforcement agenda.