ICE and Forest Service Arrest 14 Migrants in Michigan Fishing Sweep
ICE and the U.S. Forest Service arrested 14 illegal migrants during a fishing enforcement operation in northern Michigan.
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Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the U.S. Forest Service have arrested 14 illegal migrants during a joint operation in northern Michigan. The operation, known as Operation Fresh Catch, took place in the Cadillac and Manistee areas on October 10, according to an ICE press release.
Arrests During Fishing Enforcement Sweep
The arrests were part of an enforcement effort targeting illegal fishing activities and immigration violations. The suspects, who include citizens of El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico, were taken to the North Lake Processing Center for further proceedings.
Among the arrested individuals, one had a DUI conviction, three had been previously deported under final removal orders, and another had a final order of removal filed against him. All 14 are in the U.S. illegally, and their cases will be reviewed for potential immigration enforcement actions.
Coordinated Enforcement Efforts
ERO Detroit Field Office Director Matthew Putra emphasized the importance of the joint operation, stating, “ERO will continue working with the U.S. Forest Service and other law enforcement partners to safeguard Michigan’s public lands, protect natural resources and uphold federal immigration laws.” He noted that the coordinated efforts are designed to promote public safety and ensure accountability for those who violate immigration laws.
ICE reiterated its commitment to enforcing immigration laws, stating, “Consistent with the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement and public safety priorities, ICE will continue to identify, arrest and remove illegal aliens who violate U.S. immigration law.”
Processing Center and Immigration Context
The North Lake Processing Center, which opened in June of last year, has 1,800 beds for detainees. The facility was previously a private prison known as the North Lake Correctional Facility, which closed in 2022. The facility is now used to house individuals detained during immigration enforcement actions.
The arrests highlight the ongoing efforts by federal agencies to enforce immigration laws and protect public lands. The operation underscores the intersection of immigration enforcement and environmental protection, as both agencies work to address illegal activities in natural areas.
Source: Breitbart
