In a joint effort between state and federal authorities, 15 undocumented immigrants, including Cuban nationals, were apprehended in Key Largo, located in the southern part of Florida, as announced by officials on Thursday.
The raid, which took place on March 9, was carried out by the Florida Highway Patrol's Criminal Alien Arrest Team (CAAT) in collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents. This initiative, part of an operation dubbed "Operation Tidal Wave," was confirmed by the Florida Highway Patrol.
According to official reports, those arrested include individuals from Cuba, El Salvador, Honduras, Mexico, and Guatemala who were residing illegally in the United States. Authorities noted that all had significant criminal backgrounds.
The offenses attributed to some of those arrested include burglary with deadly weapons, aggravated assault, robbery, theft, drug possession, as well as domestic violence, offenses involving minors, failure to appear in court, and prior deportation records, as detailed by state officials.
Dave Kerner, the executive director of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, defended the operation, asserting that these actions aim to enhance the state's security. "This is what accountability looks like. Florida will continue to lead with decisive actions to protect our residents," he stated.
Meanwhile, Samuel Briggs, the acting chief of the Miami sector of the Border Patrol, emphasized the cooperation between state and federal agencies, describing it as a "force multiplier" for border security and addressing potential threats.
The 15 individuals arrested have been handed over to federal immigration authorities, who will now oversee their processing and determine their potential deportation from the country.
This operation is part of an increase in immigration law enforcement in Florida. Since March 2025, the state Highway Patrol has arrested over 9,000 undocumented immigrants under the federal 287(g) program, which allows state agents to collaborate in enforcing immigration laws. According to authorities, more than 1,600 of those detained had criminal records.
The presence of Cubans among those arrested highlights the complicated immigration situation faced by many from the island community in the United States, especially as authorities ramp up operations against immigrants with criminal histories.
Understanding the Recent Immigration Enforcement in Florida
What was the purpose of Operation Tidal Wave?
Operation Tidal Wave aimed to enhance border security and address potential threats by apprehending undocumented immigrants with significant criminal histories.
Who were involved in the joint operation in Florida?
The joint operation involved the Florida Highway Patrol's Criminal Alien Arrest Team (CAAT) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents.
What is the significance of the 287(g) program mentioned in the article?
The 287(g) program allows state agents to collaborate with federal authorities in enforcing immigration laws, leading to the arrest of over 9,000 undocumented immigrants in Florida since March 2025.