Rights groups slam ICE over 780 migrant arrests

U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), in collaboration with Florida state and local law enforcement agencies, arrested 780 migrants during a four-day enforcement operation, authorities confirmed on Saturday April 26, 2025.

The operation, code-named “Operation Tidal Wave,” began on Monday April 21, and used ICE’s 287(g) authority.

According to reports, the program empowers state and local officers to perform immigration enforcement functions under federal supervision.

Todd Lyons, Acting Director of ICE, described the operation as “historic” during an interview with ABC News.

“This is the first large-scale mission of its kind,” Lyons said.

“We have surged all our federal partners, along with Homeland Security Investigations and Enforcement and Removal Operations, to support this effort.

State, local, and county law enforcement agencies are fully engaged with us.”

Lyons emphasized that the partnerships serve as a “force multiplier” for ICE’s mission. “State troopers, local police officers, and county sheriffs are our eyes and ears,” he said.

“During their regular duties, they can identify and alert us to public safety threats.”

During the operation, ICE and Florida authorities, including the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, arrested 275 individuals with final orders of removal, making them eligible for swift deportation.

Madison Sheahan, Deputy Director of ICE, said the agency intends to continue expanding partnerships across the country.

“We have seen historic collaboration with states like Texas and Virginia, and more states are stepping forward to assist,” Sheahan said.

The 287(g) program, which allows local officers to perform immigration duties under ICE supervision, has seen significant growth under the current administration.

According to Lyons, 428 new 287(g) agreements have been signed with law enforcement agencies nationwide, representing a 371% increase.

Lyons stressed that these collaborations are making communities safer.

“Through these partnerships, we are removing public safety threats and securing neighborhoods,” he said.

Officials highlighted that the 287(g) program enables law enforcement to identify and detain migrants who pose security risks during routine patrols and criminal investigations.

Federal officials noted that “Operation Tidal Wave” is part of a broader national strategy to strengthen interior immigration enforcement through state and local cooperation.

ICE confirmed that similar operations are planned for other parts of the country in the coming months, leveraging the expanded network of 287(g) agreements.

The agency reiterated that it remains committed to removing noncitizens who violate U.S. immigration laws and pose a threat to public safety.

The investigation and enforcement actions are ongoing.

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