Charlotte, North Carolina, December 6, 2025
Operation Charlotte’s Web has ended in Charlotte, North Carolina, resulting in the arrest of over 425 individuals. The operation saw conflicting statements from local authorities and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regarding its conclusion, reflecting ongoing tensions in immigration enforcement. Community reactions have included protests and concerns over racial profiling, underscoring the complex relationship between local safety and federal immigration policy.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Operation Charlotte’s Web Concludes Amid Disagreements Between Local Authorities and DHS
Charlotte, North Carolina – A federal immigration enforcement operation known as “Operation Charlotte’s Web” has concluded in Charlotte, North Carolina, following a week-long crackdown that resulted in over 425 arrests. The operation, initiated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), aimed to apprehend individuals residing in the United States without legal authorization. However, the conclusion of the operation has been marked by conflicting statements between local officials and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
This local response to federal enforcement illustrates the complex relationship between community safety and federal immigration policy. Entrepreneurs and local business owners are often caught in the middle of these discussions, as they strive to maintain a thriving work environment while adhering to regulations. Ensuring a fair and functional immigration system can not only enhance community safety but can also support the resilience and growth of Charlotte’s vibrant small business landscape.
Operation Details and Arrests
During the operation, which began on November 15, 2025, CBP agents conducted enforcement actions across Charlotte and surrounding areas. The operation led to the arrest of more than 425 individuals, many of whom were previously charged with crimes while in the county. The DHS stated that the operation targeted some of the most dangerous criminal illegal aliens as it progressed. Despite the conclusion of the operation, DHS emphasized that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) would continue to operate in Mecklenburg County as they always have, maintaining full authority to detain, apprehend, and take into custody any undocumented immigrant in accordance with federal law.
Disagreement Between Local Authorities and DHS
On November 20, 2025, Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden announced that federal officials had confirmed the official conclusion of “Operation Charlotte’s Web.” He stated that no border agent operations would occur on that day. However, Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security Tricia McLaughlin publicly disagreed with this assessment, stating that the operation was not over and would continue. This public disagreement highlights the ongoing tension between local law enforcement and federal agencies regarding immigration enforcement practices.
Community Response and Criticism
The operation has sparked significant community concern and criticism. Residents have reported increased fear and uncertainty, with some accusing immigration officers of racial profiling. The presence of federal agents in the community has led to protests and calls for clarity regarding the operation’s objectives and duration. Additionally, the operation’s name, “Charlotte’s Web,” has been criticized by E.B. White’s granddaughter, who manages his literary estate. She stated that her grandfather would not condone fear-mongering and believed in the rule of law and due process, expressing that the operation’s name was antithetical to his values.
Background Context
Charlotte, North Carolina, is known for its diverse immigrant population. The state legislature passed a new law in July 2025 requiring law enforcement agencies to cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. This legal framework has influenced the dynamics of immigration enforcement in the region. The operation’s conclusion and the subsequent disagreements between local authorities and federal agencies underscore the complexities and challenges associated with immigration enforcement in communities with significant immigrant populations.
Key Features of “Operation Charlotte’s Web”
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Operation Name | “Operation Charlotte’s Web” |
| Location | Charlotte, North Carolina |
| Duration | November 15, 2025 – November 21, 2025 |
| Number of Arrests | Over 425 individuals |
| Initiating Agency | U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) |
| Controversy | Disagreement between local authorities and DHS regarding the operation’s conclusion; criticism of the operation’s name by E.B. White’s granddaughter |
Conclusion
As Charlotte navigates the complexities of immigration enforcement, the community’s concerns and the interplay between local and federal authorities will remain critical to shaping the future. Local entrepreneurs and small businesses are at the heart of this dialogue, needing clarity and support to thrive amid regulatory challenges. It is crucial for residents to stay informed and engaged in these developments, advocating for a balanced approach that promotes safety, fairness, and economic growth in Charlotte.
What was “Operation Charlotte’s Web”?
“Operation Charlotte’s Web” was a federal immigration enforcement operation initiated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in Charlotte, North Carolina, aimed at apprehending individuals residing in the United States without legal authorization. The operation began on November 15, 2025, and concluded on November 21, 2025, resulting in over 425 arrests.
Why did local authorities and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) disagree about the operation’s conclusion?
On November 20, 2025, Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden announced that federal officials had confirmed the official conclusion of “Operation Charlotte’s Web.” However, Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security Tricia McLaughlin publicly disagreed, stating that the operation was not over and would continue. This public disagreement highlights the ongoing tension between local law enforcement and federal agencies regarding immigration enforcement practices.
What has been the community’s response to the operation?
The operation has sparked significant community concern and criticism. Residents have reported increased fear and uncertainty, with some accusing immigration officers of racial profiling. The presence of federal agents in the community has led to protests and calls for clarity regarding the operation’s objectives and duration. Additionally, the operation’s name, “Charlotte’s Web,” has been criticized by E.B. White’s granddaughter, who manages his literary estate, stating that her grandfather would not condone fear-mongering and believed in the rule of law and due process.
What is the background context of immigration enforcement in Charlotte?
Charlotte, North Carolina, is known for its diverse immigrant population. The state legislature passed a new law in July 2025 requiring law enforcement agencies to cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. This legal framework has influenced the dynamics of immigration enforcement in the region. The operation’s conclusion and the subsequent disagreements between local authorities and federal agencies underscore the complexities and challenges associated with immigration enforcement in communities with significant immigrant populations.
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Author: HERE Charlotte
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