Operation Charlotte's Web: Border Patrol's Controversial Immigration Crackdown

Sun Nov 16 2025 22:56:18 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The Border Patrol arrests over 80 individuals in Charlotte as part of a controversial operation that raises concerns about tactics and community safety.

A recent immigration enforcement operation led by Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino in Charlotte, North Carolina, has sparked significant concern among local residents and leaders. Dubbed 'Operation Charlotte's Web', the sweep resulted in scores of arrests, predominantly near churches and community spaces. Local leaders criticize the timing and tactics of the operation, especially following recent controversies in other cities where similar sweeps led to violence and lawsuits. Advocates are raising alarm about the impact on community safety and the sanctity of worship in neighborhoods targeted by federal agents.

A top Border Patrol commander, Gregory Bovino, announced over 80 arrests in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Sunday, as residents reported encounters with federal immigration agents in local neighborhoods, particularly around churches and apartment complexes.

The operation, referred to as 'Operation Charlotte's Web', is part of the Trump administration's ongoing crackdown on immigration, targeting Democratic-led cities amidst claims of combating crime. This surge in enforcement comes despite previously declining crime rates in the area, leading to pushback from local leaders who are raising questions about the operation's motives and methods.

Bovino, who has also overseen similar operations in Chicago, took to social media to showcase some of the arrests, emphasizing those he referred to as criminal illegal aliens—individuals reportedly without proper documentation facing criminal charges. Pictures shared included a man with an alleged drunk driving record, with Bovino stating, We arrested him, taking him off the streets of Charlotte so he can’t continue to ignore our laws and drive intoxicated on the same roads you and your loved ones are on. However, the operation has drawn fierce criticism over its tactics and the potential risks imposed on community safety.

Concerns regarding the operational methods are heightened for various reasons. Bovino's previous operations in Chicago and Los Angeles were marked by numerous lawsuits questioning the use of force, including the deployment of chemical agents. These heavy tactics flared community tensions and led to incidents of violence. During one such operation in Chicago, federal agents were involved in a fatal shooting during a traffic stop.

As Operation Charlotte's Web gains traction, local residents are expressing alarm. Reports of Border Patrol’s presence have become overwhelming according to Greg Asciutto, executive director of a community development group, who noted countless reports of activity at religious sanctuaries and community hubs.

City council member-elect JD Mazuera Arias voiced his outrage, declaring, Houses of worship are sanctuaries for people looking for hope and faith in dark times. They should not be places of fear due to federal operations. Concerns over where detainees would be held and the duration of the operation persist, with many advocating for community safety and advocating rights.

The Department of Homeland Security has thus far remained silent on concerns surrounding the operations, failing to provide clarity on the arrests and overall strategy. As the crackdown unfolds, the local leaders reaffirm their commitment to protecting their communities amid rising tensions surrounding federal enforcement operations.