ICE Plans Massive Post-Inauguration Raids in Sanctuary Cities as Donald Trump Admin Signals 'Big F—— Operation'

6 hours ago 4

8:55am PST, Jan 18, 2025

'If They're in the Country Illegally, They Got a Problem'

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is gearing up for a significant operation targeting sanctuary cities immediately following President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on Monday, January 20. 

Sources describe the initiative as a "big f—— operation," which will commence the following day and span multiple days across cities like Chicago and New York. These urban centers have historically limited cooperation with federal immigration authorities, providing safe havens for undocumented immigrants. 

The planned sweeps aim to apprehend individuals with existing removal orders, marking a return to more aggressive enforcement tactics "not seen since the first Trump admin."

Here's what's coming.

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Focus on Individuals with Removal Orders

The upcoming ICE operations will prioritize individuals who have been issued final removal orders. By concentrating on this group, ICE seeks to enforce existing legal decisions and expedite the deportation process. 
This focus aligns with the broader objectives of the incoming administration to enhance "immigration enforcement and uphold the rule of law." 
The strategy also reflects a shift from previous policies, reinstating practices that were curtailed under the prior Biden administration.

Tom Homan's Leadership and Enforcement Priorities

Tom Homan, appointed as the incoming border czar, emphasized that the mass deportations would begin on day one of the new administration, not counting Inauguration Day. 
Homan has stated that the operations will focus on illegal immigrants who pose threats to the country, underscoring a commitment to national security and public safety. 
His leadership is expected to reinvigorate ICE's enforcement capabilities, allowing officers to resume duties that were previously restricted.
"Chicago is just one of many places," he said. "We've got 24 [ICE] field offices across the country. On Tuesday, ICE is finally going to go out and do their job. We're going to take the handcuffs off ICE and let them go arrest criminal aliens. That's what's going to happen."

Operational Preparations and Resource Allocation

In anticipation of the large-scale operations, certain ICE offices have temporarily halted routine arrests to free up detention space for the anticipated influx of detainees. 
For instance, the Chicago operation alone is expected to involve approximately 200 ICE officers, highlighting the extensive resources being mobilized. This pause in regular activities demonstrates a strategic allocation of resources to ensure the success of the forthcoming raids, reports show.

Revival of Prior Enforcement Practices

The planned operations signify a revival of enforcement practices that were discontinued during the Biden administration. Former ICE officials have noted that the agency's personnel are eager to resume their full range of "duties." 
The reinstatement of these practices reflects a policy shift aimed at strengthening immigration enforcement and addressing concerns related to illegal immigration in sanctuary cities.

Political and Community Reactions

The announcement of the impending ICE operations has elicited varied responses from political figures and community leaders. Some local officials have expressed concerns about the humanitarian implications and potential disruptions to communities. 
Conversely, proponents argue that enforcement actions are necessary to uphold immigration laws and ensure public safety. This development is likely to intensify the ongoing debate over immigration policy and the role of sanctuary cities in the United States.
"Bring it on. Bring. It. On," a commenter on X shared in response to Homan's words. 

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