During the week of March 10 to March 14, 2025, a coordinated effort by federal law enforcement agencies in Kentucky led to the administrative arrest of 81 individuals as part of Operation Take Back America. The operation focused on addressing illegal immigration across the Commonwealth. Of those arrested, 25 individuals faced charges related to immigration offenses such as illegal reentry after deportation, possession of firearms, and possession of controlled substances.
In the Western District of Kentucky alone, 53 arrests were made, with 18 individuals facing criminal charges. Those not charged will remain in ICE custody pending removal proceedings.
The arrests involved individuals from several countries including Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Cuba, India, and Palau. U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett highlighted the collaborative efforts of federal partners: "I commend the work of our federal law enforcement partners, prosecutors, and support personnel who worked tirelessly to make this operation a success."
The cases are being handled by multiple agencies including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), FBI, ATF, DEA, and USMS. These actions are part of a broader initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration and transnational crime under Operation Take Back America.
Several defendants face significant sentences if convicted; however, they remain presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. The operation was primarily coordinated by HSI Nashville and ICE/ERO Chicago.
