A wave of federal immigration agents deployed across Charlotte on Saturday, launching an enforcement push known internally as “Operation Charlotte’s Web.” The move sparked strong backlash from city and state leaders who say they were neither consulted nor supportive.
Residents Report Aggressive Arrests
Eyewitnesses captured multiple arrests by masked federal agents throughout the city. Paula Walker Coleman told ABC News she recorded agents detaining a woman and said officers reacted forcefully when her hand brushed against their vehicle. Other residents described being stopped repeatedly, including naturalized U.S. citizen Willy Aceituno, who said agents smashed his car window before releasing him once he showed proof of citizenship.
DHS Defends the Surge
A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security said the increased presence is intended to remove “public safety threats,” arguing that federal action is necessary when “sanctuary politicians won’t” cooperate. The operation is led by U.S. Customs and Border Protection commander-at-large Greg Bovino.
State and Local Leaders Push Back
North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein urged residents to record any “inappropriate behavior,” stressing that enforcement should focus on violent criminals and drug traffickers. Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles and other local officials issued a joint statement emphasizing that all residents deserve to feel safe “walking down the street, going to school, work or the grocery store.”
Local Police Not Participating
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department clarified that it is not involved in the federal operation and cannot assist with civil immigration warrants. Meanwhile, leaders in Asheville said their city may also be targeted and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring all residents feel safe, regardless of immigration status.
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