Federal agents have descended on New Orleans as part of "Operation Catahoula Crunch," a sweeping immigration enforcement initiative under the Trump administration. The operation, named after a territorial American leopard dog, marks the fourth major city targeted in President Trump's campaign to deport undocumented migrants, particularly those with criminal records.

Operation Details and Objectives

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has deployed approximately 250 agents to New Orleans, aiming to arrest 5,000 individuals. The operation focuses on undocumented migrants who have been arrested or convicted of serious crimes, including home invasion and armed robbery. Gregory Bovino, the Border Patrol Chief, leads the operation, asserting the need to target "the worst of the worst" to ensure public safety.

Community Impact and Response

The presence of federal agents has instilled fear in the predominantly Latino neighborhoods of New Orleans. Many businesses have closed their doors, and residents are staying indoors to avoid potential encounters with immigration officers. Community organizers are actively educating the public on their rights and how to document interactions with ICE legally. Some businesses have posted signs declaring ICE unwelcome, while others distribute whistles to alert neighbors of raids.

Local and Political Reactions

The crackdown has sparked a backlash in the Democrat-led city, with local leaders questioning the operation's scale and necessity. New Orleans City Council President JP Morrell expressed skepticism about the operation's goal of 5,000 arrests, doubting the presence of that many criminals in the area. Meanwhile, local law enforcement agencies in Kenner and Gretna are assisting federal agents, despite community concerns.