The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) initiated a significant federal operation in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Saturday, November 15, 2025, deploying federal agents to conduct targeted arrests of irregular migrants. This action, known as “Operation Charlotte’s Web,” marks a substantial use of federal resources in a major inland city.
The objective of this article is to provide the facts and official context surrounding the operation, based solely on statements released by U.S. government agencies.
Official Rationale: Enforcement Against Public Safety Threats
DHS statements confirm that the operation was launched in direct response to local policies—commonly referred to as “sanctuary policies”—that federal officials claim impede immigration enforcement.
- Targeted Enforcement: DHS stated the operation’s primary goal is to apprehend and remove individuals categorized as “criminal illegal aliens” who pose a threat to public safety.
- Detainer Conflict: The agency specifically highlighted that the operation was necessitated by local jurisdictions in North Carolina reportedly failing to honor close to 1,400 immigration detainers. According to official reports, these unhonored detainers allowed individuals with criminal records, including charges for serious offenses, to be released back into the community.
- Agency Deployment: Enforcement has involved various federal components, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) / Border Patrol agents, operating within the city limits.
Guidance for Foreign Nationals on Compliance
In light of heightened enforcement activities, foreign nationals residing in the United States must ensure compliance and preparedness, referencing established federal procedures.
- Verify Legal Status: Individuals with pending immigration applications should utilize the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Case Status Online Tool to verify the status and processing stage of their petition using their 13-character receipt number.
- Rights and Conduct: All individuals present in the United States are protected by constitutional rights, including the right to remain silent. The U.S. government provides general guidance on the rights and responsibilities of non-citizens during encounters with federal agents.
- Maintain Documentation: Legal Permanent Residents and non-immigrant visa holders must carry documentation that proves their legal status (e.g., Green Card, valid visa stamp, or I-94 record). This is the most effective way to prevent unnecessary questioning or detention during an enforcement action.
DHS has indicated that this type of targeted, localized operation model is expected to be deployed in other jurisdictions where similar conflicts over detainer policies exist.
