U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested 1,328 people across Virginia and Maryland during a two-week immigration operation, the Department of Homeland Security said Aug. 24.
DHS described those arrested as being in the country illegally. Nearly 400 of those arrested had been convicted of or charged with crimes in the United States, according to the release, which did not break down the two groups.
Officers made the arrests between Aug. 1 and Aug. 14 during Operation Safe Community — Washington, D.C. The operation focused largely on Washington-area suburbs but included targeted actions throughout both states, DHS said.
According to DHS, those arrested included people convicted of sexual battery, kidnapping, driving while intoxicated, hit-and-run, identity theft and robbery. The department also cited arrests for murder, attempted murder and rape.
The department reported arresting members of MS-13, the 18th Street Gang and Tren de Aragua. The release did not name any of the 1,328 people or provide case details.
DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin accused “sanctuary politicians” in both states of putting people in the country illegally ahead of Americans’ safety. The release included no response from state officials.
DHS said ICE made more than 1,200 arrests in a July operation in Georgia.
This is a developing story. Virginia Times will update as information becomes available.
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