Story perspectives

DHS Launches Controversial Operation Targeting Undocumented Immigrants

12/3/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) launches Operation Catahoula Crunch in New Orleans to arrest undocumented immigrants with violent histories released under sanctuary policies.
The operation follows similar crackdowns and is backed by Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, who expects National Guard deployment before Christmas, and plans a separate Minnesota operation targeting Somali immigrants.
Critics, including Mayor-Elect Helena Morena, say the effort amounts to racial profiling.

History

Historical Context

Operation Wetback, initiated in June 1954 under President Eisenhower, aimed to deport undocumented Mexican immigrants amid rising immigration tensions, resulting in over 250,000 removals in its first year. This operation followed the Bracero Program, which had allowed legal Mexican laborers into the U.S. The recent Operation Catahoula Crunch in New Orleans echoes these historical enforcement efforts, highlighting ongoing immigration debates.

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Story summary

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) launches Operation Catahoula Crunch in New Orleans to arrest undocumented immigrants with violent histories released under sanctuary policies.
The operation follows similar crackdowns and is backed by Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, who expects National Guard deployment before Christmas, and plans a separate Minnesota operation targeting Somali immigrants.
Critics, including Mayor-Elect Helena Morena, say the effort amounts to racial profiling.

1 / 2