ICE Arrests Over 3,500 Criminal Illegal Aliens in Houston Amid Government Shutdown

Amid the recent federal government shutdown, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) escalated its enforcement activities in Houston, leading to the detention of 3,593 individuals classified as criminal illegal aliens. This intensified operation targeted neighborhoods and transit corridors known for elevated undocumented immigrant presence, reflecting ICE’s unwavering dedication to public safety despite budgetary and operational hurdles. The agency prioritized arrests of individuals with criminal histories, ranging from serious felonies to repeated immigration violations, aiming to reduce threats to local communities.

The enforcement campaign was marked by coordinated raids across multiple districts, combining the efforts of field agents with the use of sophisticated surveillance tools. Key aspects of the operation include:

• Most arrests took place in residential areas with a high concentration of undocumented immigrants.
• Partnerships with municipal law enforcement enhanced the reach and effectiveness of the sweeps despite limited federal resources.
• Detainees are currently held in ICE custody pending deportation hearings or further criminal proceedings.