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Feds and Florida police team up in historic immigration sting​

Operation Tidal Wave arrests nearly 800 undocumented immigrants in a shocking joint effort

An unexpected collaboration between federal authorities and Florida law enforcement led to the start of a large-scale immigration enforcement operation called "Operation Tidal Wave." It has resulted in the arrest of nearly 800 undocumented immigrants across the state.

It is the first coordinated effort between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Florida police since the Trump administration announced its agenda relating to immigration policy. ​

A joint effort

Operation Tidal Wave in itself represents a major swing in immigration enforcement strategy, with approximately 130 Florida agencies actively participating under the 287(g) program. The initiative allows local law enforcement to question, arrest, and detain persons suspected of being undocumented immigrants, powers traditionally held by federal agencies like ICE. ​

The operation only targeted people with a criminal background, such as involvement with violent gang members or fugitives with international warrants. Notable arrests included:​

  • Jose Sanchez Reyes, a Colombian national convicted of homicide
  • Rafael Juarex Cabrera, a Guatemalan MS-13 gang member with multiple illegal U.S. entries
  • Savva Klishchevskii, a Russian wanted for vehicular manslaughter
  • Aron Isaak Morazan-Izaguirre, a Honduran affiliated with the 18th Street Gang and suspected terrorism links

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis praised the operation as a significant success in the state's collaboration with the Trump administration on immigration policy. ​

Badges of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security displayed together on a neutral background.

Future impact and concerns

The officials have highlighted the success of the operation in enhancing public safety. On the other hand, there is growing concern among immigrant communities over the potential misuse of power.

The Florida Immigrant Coalition has heavily criticized the operation, accentuating the need for policies that protect human rights and due process. ​

The fear of deportation or possible detention has also grown exponentially among immigrant populations. As a result, people belonging to these communities may feel reluctant to come in contact with law enforcement officials to report crimes, which can undermine public safety as a whole.

Stay connected

The collaboration sits well with the Trump administration's immigration agenda, which is hell-bent on strict enforcement and deportation. However, it also prompts discussions about the effectiveness and ethical considerations of such aggressive tactics.​

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