ICE announces results of targeted enforcement operation in Nashville area

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Enforcement and Removal Operations, New Orleans Field Office announced today the results of a weeklong targeted enforcement operation, which resulted in the arrest of 196 criminal illegal aliens, some with significant criminal histories and outstanding final orders of removal. The operation, focused on identifying and apprehending removable aliens who pose a threat to public safety, was carried out across the greater Nashville area in coordination with Department of Homeland Security components, The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, and the Tennessee Highway Patrol.

“This enforcement effort underscores ICE’s unwavering commitment to public safety and the rule of law. Our officers are focused on identifying and removing individuals who pose a threat to the safety and security of Tennessee residents,” said acting ERO New Orleans Field Office Director Brian Acuna. “During the operation I witnessed the men and women of the Tennessee Highway Patrol carry out significant public safety efforts. The New Orleans Field Office is grateful for their support."

Notable arrests include:

• A 37-year-old Venezuelan national Tren de Aragua affiliate gang member.
• A 39-year-old Mexican national with six prior removals from the U.S. and convictions for felony domestic assault and sex with a minor.
• A 28-year-old Mexican national with conviction for reckless aggravated assault.
• A 56-year-old Mexican national with a conviction for drug possession.
• A 60-year-old Iraqi national with a conviction for rape.
• A 33-year-old El Salvadorian national MS-13 affiliate gang member with drug convictions and an active Red Notice for aggravated murder.
• A 36-year-old Haitian national with conviction for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

Of the 196 individuals arrested, 95 had prior criminal convictions and pending criminal charges, while 31 were previously removed individuals who reentered the United States illegally, a felony offense under federal law.

Those individuals who have final orders of removal, who returned to the United States illegally after being previously deported, are subject to immediate removal from the country. The remaining individuals are in ICE custody awaiting due process before an immigration judge or pending travel arrangements for removal

ICE continues to focus its enforcement efforts on individuals who pose a threat to national security, public safety, and border security. ERO officers make enforcement decisions on a case-by-case basis, informed by the totality of an individual’s circumstances and guided by federal law and agency priorities.

For more news and information on ICE’s efforts to enforce our nation’s immigration laws and bolster public safety, national security and border security in Tennessee, follow us on X at @ERONewOrleans.

Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.