In a coordinated effort spearheaded by Miami's Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), along with support from Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and various state and local agencies, more than 400 undocumented immigrants were arrested between September 22 and 26, 2025. The operation focused on individuals with outstanding orders or those subject to deportation. The Department of Homeland Security described the initiative as a replicable model nationwide, emphasizing the capture of the "worst of the worst." The operation was supported by partners in the 287(g) program, including the Florida Highway Patrol, sheriff's offices in Polk and Brevard, the Florida National Guard, among others.
The official report revealed that those detained included individuals convicted or accused of lewd conduct, assaults, domestic violence, prostitution, vehicle theft, hit-and-run incidents, and driving under the influence (DUI). Deputy Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated that the operation "eliminated an immediate threat to public safety" and encouraged more law enforcement agencies to adopt this coordinated approach.
Highlighted Arrests
Among the notable cases mentioned by ICE were:
- Walther Ramiro Hernández-Ortiz (Honduras): arrested for lewd and obscene conduct and assault.
- Juan Carlos Hernández-Reyes (Mexico): convicted of domestic violence and prostitution; history of assault and disorderly conduct.
- Edgar Rivera-Salinas (Mexico): convicted of vehicle theft, possession of marijuana, evading arrest, and illegal entry.
- Efraín Santos-Palacios (Mexico): arrested for DUI and fleeing the scene.
- Ubaldino Hernández-Hernández (Mexico): charged with hit-and-run, reckless driving, operating without a license (three charges), and probation violation.
- Weder Teixeira Basto (Brazil): convicted for DUI.
- Mario Suárez-Maya (Mexico): arrested for DUI, four counts of driving without a license, and giving a false name to police.
- Yoni Méndez-López (Mexico): arrested for DUI, resisting and assaulting/threatening an officer, lacking a license, and fleeing from police with active lights and sirens.
Context and Impact
Florida leads the nation in 287(g) partnerships with 327 active agreements, reflecting a 577% increase since January 20, 2025, according to the operation's report. The detainees were placed under the custody of Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) for processing their removal proceedings, adhering to federal priority criteria.
Florida sheriffs have requested $250 million in state funds to bolster their role in immigration control. This funding, aimed at enhancing technological resources, officer bonuses, and temporary detention capacity, is in coordination with President Donald Trump's administration. The requests were reviewed this Tuesday by the State Board of Immigration Law Enforcement, which includes Governor Ron DeSantis, Attorney General James Uthmeier, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, and Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia.
This funding marks the first allocation following a special legislative session held in February.
Frequently Asked Questions About ICE Operations in Florida
What is the 287(g) program?
The 287(g) program is a partnership between ICE and local law enforcement agencies, allowing them to collaborate on immigration enforcement under federal authority.
Why was this operation conducted in Florida?
Florida was chosen due to its extensive 287(g) partnerships and the presence of individuals with outstanding orders or who are subject to deportation, posing a potential threat to public safety.
How does this operation impact public safety?
According to officials, the operation removes individuals who pose immediate threats to public safety, such as those involved in violent crimes or repeat offenses.