In a major crackdown on criminal illegal immigrants, United States authorities have arrested more than 150 migrant sexual predators during a sweeping operation in Florida.
Massive Operation Targets Dangerous Criminals
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem disclosed on Wednesday that federal agents conducted what has been dubbed "Operation Dirtbag," resulting in the apprehension of over 230 illegal immigrants wanted for various crimes throughout the Sunshine State.
The operation specifically targeted individuals with prior convictions for serious offenses including drug crimes, murder, and sexual assault. Among those arrested were numerous child molesters and sexual predators who had been living illegally in the United States.
Authorities Speak Out on Operation Success
During an appearance on "Fox & Friends," Secretary Noem expressed strong sentiments about the operation's success. "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," Noem stated emphatically.
The Homeland Security Secretary highlighted the significant impact of removing these dangerous individuals from communities. "These 150 individuals will be gone off of our streets. Our kids will be safer," she affirmed, adding that the operation serves as a model she hopes to replicate across the nation.
Political Cooperation and Future Plans
The extensive law enforcement effort was conducted in cooperation with Florida Republican Governor Ron DeSantis. Noem emphasized that the individuals apprehended "should have never been in our country to begin with," describing them as "sexual deviants and perverts" who now face removal from the United States.
The announcement comes amid ongoing debates about immigration enforcement strategies. Reports indicate that federal Border Patrol agents previously assigned to Chicago for similar operations are being redeployed to other major cities as part of the Trump administration's continued crackdown on illegal immigration.
Despite the planned reduction of federal presence in Chicago, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will maintain operations in the city. The situation has sparked political tensions, with Illinois Democratic Governor JB Pritzker criticizing the administration's approach.
Both President Trump and the Department of Homeland Security maintain that the Chicago operation, which began in September, has produced significant public safety benefits. They report a 41% decline in robberies and a 35% reduction in shootings since the initiative started.
Secretary Noem responded strongly to criticism from the Illinois governor, asserting that his "personal attacks" are endangering citizens. "I'm just so thrilled with the results that we've had in Chicago, and we're going to surge more resources there," she declared, indicating plans to expand similar operations to additional cities.
The successful Florida operation represents one of the largest coordinated efforts to remove criminal illegal immigrants with sexual offense histories from American communities in recent months.
