Confusion Surrounds Charlotte’s Border Patrol Operation

Charlotte residents are grappling with conflicting information regarding “Operation Charlotte’s Web,” a U.S. Border Patrol initiative targeting undocumented immigrants. While local officials initially declared the operation concluded, federal authorities swiftly contradicted these reports, stating the operation is still active and “not ending anytime soon,” leaving many questions unanswered about its current scope and presence.

Operation Charlotte’s Web: A Shifting Narrative

“Operation Charlotte’s Web” was launched in Charlotte on November 15 to apprehend undocumented immigrants. By the morning of Thursday, Nov. 20, WBTV independently confirmed with federal and law enforcement sources that Border Patrol agents were believed to have left the city. Mecklenburg County Sheriff Darren McFadden publicly stated that the Border Patrol operation had “officially concluded,” though he noted U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) would continue its work.

However, just hours later, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees Border Patrol, directly refuted the sheriff’s statement. Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin declared, “The operation is not over, and it is not ending anytime soon.” This stark contradiction has created significant confusion for the community. The Sheriff’s office, when contacted again, stated they were standing by their initial report.

What Does “Ongoing” Mean Now?

Despite DHS’s insistence that the operation continues, the precise nature of its ongoing presence in Charlotte remains unclear. Federal agencies have confirmed they are still targeting undocumented immigrants with criminal histories “as Operation Charlotte’s Web progresses.” While the initial surge of Border Patrol agents is believed to have departed, federal officials have not specified how many, if any, agents remain. They also underscored that the federal government is not obligated to communicate its plans to local law enforcement.

DHS officials confirmed that ICE and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will maintain their presence and operations in Charlotte. It’s important to remember that Border Patrol operates under CBP, and both ICE and CBP are components of DHS, with year-round offices in North and South Carolina.

Conflicting Statements on Operation Status

Arrests Rise Amid Community Concerns

As of Thursday, Homeland Security reported approximately 370 arrests during the Charlotte operation, an increase from 250 reported the previous day. While federal officials identify all arrestees as undocumented immigrants, they have not provided specific details on pending charges or the nature of most arrests. Border Patrol Commander At Large Greg Bovino claimed that “many” of those detained had “significant criminal and immigration histories.”

However, the operation has sparked controversy due to reports and videos of federal agents allegedly detaining U.S. citizens and appearing to engage in questioning and profiling at random. This contradicts claims that the operation was solely aimed at individuals with criminal backgrounds.

Community Uproar and Leadership Response

The federal presence has been met with widespread protest across Charlotte. Last weekend, hundreds marched in Uptown, and more demonstrations followed throughout the week. Students from several Charlotte-Mecklenburg schools staged walkouts, with over 56,000 students reportedly absent between Monday and Tuesday, believed to be linked to the Border Patrol operation. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg school district, which serves a significant Hispanic community, emphasizes its commitment to all students regardless of immigration status.

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles expressed “relief” after initial reports of Border Patrol agents leaving, calling for unity. Earlier, she voiced “deep concern with many of the videos” she had seen, asserting that the “rights and constitutional protections of every person in Charlotte — regardless of immigration status — must be upheld.” North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein publicly accused Border Patrol agents of “stoking fear” and “racially profiling and picking up random people.” While some lawmakers and residents support the federal operation, many others argue it creates fear and danger.

What’s Next for Charlotte?

With conflicting statements, the future of “Operation Charlotte’s Web” in Charlotte remains uncertain. While Border Patrol’s main surge may have left, the continued presence of ICE and CBP means federal immigration enforcement activities are ongoing. It’s also been reported that Border Patrol may be operating in other North Carolina communities, such as the Raleigh-Durham area.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is “Operation Charlotte’s Web” over?
  Federal officials with the Department of Homeland Security state the operation is “not over” and “not ending anytime soon,” despite initial reports from local authorities suggesting its conclusion.
• What is the primary goal of the operation?
  The operation was launched to target undocumented immigrants in Charlotte, with federal agencies emphasizing a focus on individuals with criminal histories.
• Are Border Patrol agents still in Charlotte?
  While the initial surge of Border Patrol agents is believed to have left, federal officials have not specified how many, if any, remain. ICE and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) continue to be operational in the city.
• How many arrests have been made so far?
  As of Thursday, approximately 370 arrests have been reported during the operation.
• What has been the impact on the community?
  The operation has led to significant protests, school walkouts resulting in over 56,000 student absences, and expressions of concern from local leaders like Mayor Lyles and Gov. Stein about fear and potential profiling.

In this climate of ongoing uncertainty, staying informed through reliable local news sources and understanding the distinction between local and federal law enforcement roles is crucial for Charlotte residents.

Confusion Over Charlotte Border Patrol Operation