Story perspectives

Florida's Operation Criminal Return: 200+ Criminals Deported

11/16/2025

Summary

Story summary

Florida's Operation Criminal Return deported more than 200 criminals, including 164 sexual-crime offenders and two convicted murderers.
ICE Deputy Director Madison Sheahan credited federal-state cooperation as a model for national immigration enforcement.
Many of those arrested had prior deportation orders but remained in the United States.
Governor Ron DeSantis criticized the Biden administration for not enforcing deportations effectively.
The operation underscores Florida's aggressive stance on immigration and public safety.

History

Historical Context

Operation Wetback, initiated in June 1954 under President Dwight D. Eisenhower, aimed to deport over 1.1 million undocumented Mexican immigrants using military-style tactics. This operation arose from rising tensions over illegal immigration, despite the concurrent Bracero Program, which had allowed legal entry for Mexican laborers. Florida's recent Operation Criminal Return echoes this historical precedent, highlighting ongoing challenges in U.S. immigration policy.

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Story summary

Florida's Operation Criminal Return deported more than 200 criminals, including 164 sexual-crime offenders and two convicted murderers.
ICE Deputy Director Madison Sheahan credited federal-state cooperation as a model for national immigration enforcement.
Many of those arrested had prior deportation orders but remained in the United States.
Governor Ron DeSantis criticized the Biden administration for not enforcing deportations effectively.
The operation underscores Florida's aggressive stance on immigration and public safety.

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