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FLORIDA - In what authorities are calling the largest immigration enforcement sweep in Florida’s history, 1,120 individuals were allegedly apprehended for being in the country illegally during a multi-agency operation known as “Operation Tidal Wave.”
The arrests took place between April 21 and April 26th, involving coordinated efforts between ICE, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and dozens of local police departments.
Governor Ron DeSantis appeared alongside Homeland Security officials at a press conference in Miramar, celebrating the success of the operation and signaling continued collaboration.
“This is just the beginning,” DeSantis stated, emphasizing Florida’s leadership in supporting federal immigration policies.
ICE reports show that a majority of those arrested allegedly had prior criminal charges or convictions.
Several were reportedly subject to final deportation orders or connected to transnational gangs, including MS-13 and Tren de Aragua.
The operation targeted individuals in cities like Jacksonville, Orlando, and Miami, as well as smaller counties across the state.
The surge in enforcement was made possible by the rapid expansion of 287(g) agreements, federal partnerships that deputize local law enforcement to act on immigration violations.
Florida currently has agreements with agencies in all 67 counties, more than any other state.
Critics argue the crackdown has instilled fear among immigrant communities.
Advocacy groups claim some detainees had valid asylum claims or work permits and were detained during routine traffic stops.
Despite the backlash, federal officials praised the operation as a model for future enforcement nationwide, citing the unprecedented level of cooperation among agencies.