More than 150 illegal immigrant sex offenders were arrested in Florida during a Department of Homeland Security operation targeting migrants linked to violent crimes.
More than 150 illegal immigrant sexual predators were arrested in Florida during a statewide enforcement operation, according to a report from THE WASHINGTON TIMES.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced Wednesday that the arrests were made under “Operation Criminal Return,” targeting migrants connected to serious offenses including sexual assault and child molestation. In total, over 230 migrants were taken into custody, including suspects facing charges of murder, burglary, and drug crimes.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem told Fox News, “This operation was called Operation Criminal Return. I call it Operation Dirtbag, because these individuals were sex offenders, but not just sex offenders — they targeted children.”
“These individuals should have never been in our country to begin with,” Noem added. “The fact that they were sexual deviants and perverts, and now we’ve gotten them off of our streets, it’s remarkable. And we need to do more of it.”
Noem said the collaboration between DHS and Florida law enforcement agencies would serve as a model for future nationwide operations.
Meanwhile, President Trump said federal enforcement efforts were also showing progress in cities like Chicago, noting sharp declines in shootings, muggings, and carjackings since the launch of Operation Midway Blitz.