CHARLOTTE — CNN reports suggest that border patrol agents may be diverted to Charlotte for operations targeting violent criminals without legal status, similar to recent actions in Chicago.
An email sent to the mayor and city council mentioned these reports, but did not confirm any details.
It emphasized that the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has no role in federal immigration enforcement.
Councilman Ed Driggs stated that CMPD and the sheriff’s office have not indicated any coordination or communication from ICE, leaving them with little knowledge of the situation.
“We have issues that we’re confronting since the Iryna Zarutska killing,” Driggs said, “but I don’t think we need ICE here.”
Councilman Driggs expressed concerns about the prospect of border patrol agents operating in Charlotte, stating, “I think the borders should be controlled, but when you have people kinda prowling the streets or whatever it is they plan to do here, that is disquieting.”
Immigration attorney Jamilah Espinosa noted that non-profit organizations and community organizers are planning meetings to instruct migrants on their rights and what to do if detained.
“We want to make sure that they vet, that they really ensure that it’s ICE,” Espinosa said.
Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden requested that Customs and Border Patrol inform his office and local law enforcement of any enforcement actions in advance to ensure safety.
Non-profit organizations and attorneys supporting immigrants are mobilizing in response to the potential arrival of ICE in Charlotte.
They are organizing meetings to educate migrants on their rights and how to handle encounters with immigration officials.
Espinosa emphasized the importance of peaceful protests if ICE conducts operations in Charlotte, contrasting with the violent clashes seen in Chicago.
She advised allies of the immigrant community to share their voices rather than engage in confrontations with immigration officials.
Several local and state officials — including members of the Charlotte City Council, the Mecklenburg County Commission, the CMS Board, and the General Assembly — issued a joint statement reassuring immigrant communities amid reports of possible federal immigration enforcement in Charlotte.
They emphasized that immigrants are valued members of the community and should not feel alone or unwelcome. The officials pledged to ensure accurate information, open communication, and the protection of all residents’ safety and dignity.
The statement also clarified that federal immigration actions are directed by the Department of Homeland Security through ICE and CBP — not by local or state governments — and that CMPD does not enforce immigration laws or participate in federal immigration operations.
This is a developing story; check back for updates.
(VIDEO: Woman reunites with family after being released from ICE custody)
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