Federal agents stormed New York City early Tuesday in the first major deportation raids under President Trump’s immigration crackdown. The initiative targets sanctuary cities and focuses on removing illegal immigrants from the U.S.
DEA confirms operation
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) confirmed the operation. They are working with the Justice Department and other federal agencies to support the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Officials shared photos of the initial raids to showcase their efforts.
Nationwide crackdown
Since Trump took office, federal agents have been arresting hundreds of migrants daily in sanctuary cities. These cities include Chicago, Seattle, Atlanta, Boston, Los Angeles, and New Orleans. The aim is to deport individuals violating immigration laws.
Widening the scope
Border czar Thomas Homan warned that anyone in the U.S. illegally is at risk. Speaking on ABC News, Homan said, “You’re going to see arrest numbers steadily increase nationwide.” He emphasized that current operations prioritize public safety and national security threats but will expand over time. “As the scope widens, expect more arrests,” he added.
Sensitive sites no longer off-limits
Trump’s policies have removed restrictions on where immigration officers can conduct raids. Churches, courthouses, and other “sensitive” locations are no longer off-limits. These sites have historically served as havens for those avoiding detection.
Mayor Adams responds
Mayor Eric Adams addressed the looming crackdown. He said city officials would coordinate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on handling migrant criminals. However, Adams also expressed concerns over Trump’s expanded rules for raids in sensitive areas. He assured worried New Yorkers that the city would not support indiscriminate actions targeting all immigrants.
NYPD’s role clarified
The NYPD sent out a memo to clarify their role. Officers can work with ICE on criminal investigations but not on deportations. Deportations fall under civil enforcement, which New York’s sanctuary status does not support.
Arrest numbers climb
ICE reported thousands of arrests nationwide leading up to Tuesday’s raids in New York. On Monday, agents arrested 1,179 individuals and issued 853 detainers. The previous day saw 956 arrests and 554 detainers. Officials say these numbers will climb as operations intensify.
Federal agents are determined to meet Trump’s promise of tougher immigration enforcement. As raids continue, fears grow among immigrant communities. Yet, officials insist their primary focus remains on those posing public safety or national security threats.
