DeSantis Announces Florida Arrested 10,400 Illegal Immigrants in ‘Operation Tidal Wave’
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that his state has arrested more than 10,400 illegal immigrants as part of a sweeping enforcement effort called “Operation Tidal Wave,” marking a major milestone in state and federal immigration cooperation. foxnews.com
The announcement came during a news conference in Tallahassee, where DeSantis said the initiative — launched in April 2025 — has become the largest joint immigration enforcement operation in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) history. Washington Examiner
What Is Operation Tidal Wave?
Operation Tidal Wave is a state‑led enforcement campaign in partnership with federal authorities designed to identify, detain, and remove illegal immigrants living in Florida. The effort is backed by the 287(g) program, which allows state and local law enforcement officers to assist in federal immigration enforcement. flgov.com
The operation has involved law enforcement agencies across Florida working alongside ICE and Department of Homeland Security personnel to target individuals in the country illegally, including those with criminal convictions. flgov.com
DeSantis Highlights Public Safety Goals
According to the governor’s office, many of the immigrants arrested under Operation Tidal Wave had criminal records or posed public safety concerns. DeSantis and other state officials emphasized that the campaign is intended to protect Floridian communities and enforce immigration laws more robustly. flgov.com
“This is the largest joint immigration enforcement operation in ICE’s history, and we’re proud that it will continue here in Florida,” DeSantis said, underscoring the state’s leadership role in immigration enforcement efforts. flgov.com
Florida officials reported that local law enforcement agencies — including sheriff’s offices and state troopers — have worked in coordination with federal agents across multiple counties to carry out the arrests and processing of individuals apprehended during the operation. flgov.com
Facilities and Deportation
Those detained as part of the initiative have been processed through specialized state facilities such as the “Deportation Depot” and “Alligator Alcatraz,” which were established to help expedite removal proceedings. https://www.fox10tv.com
Thousands of those arrested are reportedly being deported or scheduled for removal hearings, as authorities work to reduce the number of undocumented immigrants living in Florida outside proper legal status. https://www.fox10tv.com
Political and Public Reaction
The operation has drawn significant attention from both supporters and critics:
- Supporters argue that the initiative strengthens border security, upholds the rule of law, and removes dangerous criminals from communities.
- Critics and immigrant advocacy groups raise concerns about due process, family separation, and whether broad enforcement sweeps adequately distinguish between violent offenders and those seeking a better life. Spokesman-Review
The crackdown has also fueled wider debate over state vs. federal roles in immigration enforcement and whether similar programs should be expanded to other states. flgov.com
What This Means for Florida
With over 10,400 arrests reported, Florida has moved to the front lines of immigration enforcement in the United States. For DeSantis — a potential national political figure — the operation reinforces his stance on border security and law enforcement. foxnews.com
As this story continues to unfold, Florida officials say they will maintain and possibly expand their cooperation with federal agencies to continue targeting illegal immigration and protect community safety statewide.