In response to the ongoing “Catahoula Crunch” immigration sweeps in New Orleans, local leaders are calling for increased transparency from federal authorities. These operations, launched by the Trump administration, have raised concerns among residents and officials regarding their impact and legality.
Details of Operation Catahoula Crunch
The recent immigration crackdown, described as “Operation Catahoula Crunch,” commenced on December 5, 2025. Officials from the U.S. Border Patrol, including Commander Gregory Bovino, conducted sweeps in various neighborhoods, resulting in several arrests. However, specifics about the individuals detained remain scarce.
Political Responses and Concerns
- Mayor-elect Helena Moreno led calls for clarity on the operations.
- Moreno demanded details on the arrests, including legal bases and identification for agents.
- U.S. Rep. Troy Carter and former mayor Marc Morial joined her in emphasizing the need for transparency.
Moreno articulated her concerns at a press conference, stating that the municipality deserves straightforward information about law enforcement actions. She expressed her belief that the requests were reasonable and necessary for public safety.
Initial Outcomes of the Sweeps
According to reports from the Department of Homeland Security, dozens of arrests have taken place in the New Orleans area. Despite claims of targeting individuals with a significant immigration history, anecdotes suggest that many detained may actually hold legal status.
Community Reactions
The operation has sparked fear in the community. Advocates, such as Homero Lopez from Immigration Services and Legal Advocacy, reported that many detainees had valid work permits or were in the process of obtaining them. This has raised allegations of indiscriminate targeting based on ethnicity and language.
- A disturbing video circulated showing a mother fleeing when approached by agents.
- Local residents expressed their objections by recording interactions and encouraging others to stay indoors.
- Kenner police were involved in managing the community’s response to Border Patrol operations.
Statements from Officials
Commander Bovino defended the operations, claiming they are necessary for public safety, despite the rising tension. He noted that their goal was to detain as many individuals as possible, without specifying numbers.
Morial criticized the approach of masked agents, drawing a controversial parallel to the Ku Klux Klan’s tactics. He emphasized the unsettling nature of their anonymity while conducting law enforcement actions.
As Operation Catahoula Crunch unfolds, ongoing calls for transparency from local leaders indicate a growing concern over the implications of federal immigration enforcement within communities in New Orleans.
