‘Charlotte’s Web’ operation draws support, pushback as DHS reports 370 arrests
The Department of Homeland Security’s “Charlotte’s Web” operation resulted in the arrest of 370 people in five days, according to the agency’s latest figures.
READ MORE: DHS: Charlotte’s Operation Web ‘not ending’ as local leaders say agents are leaving city
The operation took place in Charlotte and involved federal law enforcement actions aimed at addressing criminal activity in the area. Despite local reports suggesting otherwise, DHS maintains that the operation will continue in the future.
Jason Houser, former Chief of Staff of ICE during the Biden administration, criticized the operation and stated that it did more harm than good.
He argued that the real criminals were engaged in human smuggling and drug smuggling at the border, not those engaged in day-to-day activities in central North Carolina.
In contrast, the North Carolina GOP supports the operation, seeing it as an important step after years of tension between federal authorities and Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden.
“We applaud our federal law enforcement actions in Charlotte,” said NCGOP president Jason Simmons.
The operation sparked controversy among local and federal officials.
Although DHS claims the operation will continue, there is uncertainty about the backgrounds of those arrested and the specific impact of the operation.
Local law enforcement had previously stated that Border Patrol had left Charlotte, but DHS denied that claim, insisting that federal efforts were ongoing.
The operation followed years of conflict between federal authorities and local law enforcement, particularly with Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden, who has been criticized by the North Carolina GOP for refusing to cooperate with federal detainees.
The “Charlotte’s Web” operation revealed different perspectives on immigration enforcement in North Carolina; federal officials and local officials have disagreed over its implementation and impact.
While DHS continues its efforts, debates over the effectiveness and necessity of the operation remain a contentious issue.
VIDEO: Victim wants suspect arrested as Border Patrol agents catch repeat offenders
