Florida law enforcement officials and officers from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced on Thursday (November 13th) that they had arrested hundreds of illegal immigrant criminals, many of whom were child sex offenders, in a 10-day joint operation.
The operation named “Operation Criminal Return” was launched on October 25th and resulted in the apprehension of 230 criminal illegal immigrants, including 150 registered sex offenders who had been convicted of crimes such as assaulting minors, rape, and exploitation.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that one individual had been arrested 19 times, and another had been convicted of child sex abuse and arrested 10 times.
In a press release, DHS described the operation as “Operation Dirtbag,” targeting child sex offenders, rapists, and violent criminal illegal immigrants whose offenses include sexual abuse of minors, rape, indecent acts, child exploitation, assault, and attempted murder.
ICE Deputy Director Madison Sheahan said, “This operation highlights the determination of President Trump and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem to deport dangerous foreign criminals from the United States.”
She also criticized sanctuary cities in the U.S., stating that they “shield criminals from accountability … undermining the rule of law and endangering residents’ safety.”
She praised the collaboration between Florida and ICE in deporting criminal illegal immigrants, emphasizing that they sent a clear message that criminal foreigners who threaten U.S. citizens and violate laws will be expelled to prevent them from committing more egregious crimes.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who was unable to attend the press conference due to transportation issues, stated in a release that those arrested were “the most dangerous illegal immigrant criminals with horrifying criminal records,” including child sex offenders.
He expressed pride in Florida’s proactive stance in combating illegal immigration and highlighted the state and local law enforcement’s continuous efforts to be a powerful tool in enforcing immigration law for the federal government.
Director of the Florida Board of Immigration Enforcement, Anthony Coker, affirmed continued cooperation with DHS on behalf of Florida.
Melissa Bujeda, Chief of Florida’s law enforcement department, condemned the criminals, stating, “These criminals rape children, molest children, commit the most abominable crimes against others’ kids; they should not be roaming the streets of Florida. If our entire community cannot support this operation, then I don’t know what else can be said.”
Sheahan echoed similar sentiments, highlighting how the federal and Florida governments working together can bring about change, setting an example for other regions across the U.S.
Florida has joined the federal 287(g) program, allowing local law enforcement officers to assist ICE in identifying and dealing with individuals requiring federal immigration enforcement. Currently, the U.S. has signed over 1,100 agreements for the 287(g) program in 40 states.
(Reference: FOX NEWS)