U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), in collaboration with various law enforcement agencies, conducted an operation that resulted in the arrest of 214 illegal aliens in Northern Virginia. This operation, which took place from March 1 to 13, targeted transnational organized crime, gangs, and serious illegal alien offenders.
Russ Hott, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Washington, D.C. Field Office Director, stated: "Our communities in Virginia are safer today because our law enforcement officers stood between them and the danger." He highlighted the significant number of arrests made within a short period due to strong cooperation among federal, state, and local partners.
The operation focused on transnational criminal organizations active in the Northern Virginia suburbs of Washington, D.C., including MS-13 and 18th Street gangs. Christopher Heck, acting Special Agent in Charge for ICE Homeland Security Investigations Washington, D.C., emphasized the importance of partnerships in achieving these results: "The apprehension of 214 alien offenders is impressive and was only made possible through strong partnerships."
Hott also noted the commitment from partner organizations: "In the spirit of illicit gang activity, we are making gang members an offer they can’t refuse; leave the United States now. If you don’t, we will find you, and there will be consequences."
Among those arrested were individuals with prior convictions ranging from malicious wounding to second-degree murder. Law enforcement partners included U.S. Attorney’s Offices for both districts of Virginia; FBI; U.S. Marshals Service; Drug Enforcement Administration; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; as well as state-level agencies.
Public reports on crimes or suspicious activities can be made by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE or through an online tip form.
