Charlotte, NC – A recent operation by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in Charlotte, North Carolina, has resulted in the arrest of over 130 individuals who were in the country illegally. The operation, dubbed “Charlotte’s Web,” began early Saturday morning and focused on identifying and apprehending individuals with a history of criminal activity and immigration violations.
According to a DHS statement released on Monday, a significant number of those arrested, 44, have extensive criminal records. These records include convictions for serious offenses such as aggravated assault, assault with a deadly weapon, assault on a police officer, battery, driving under the influence, and hit-and-run. The presence of such individuals in our communities raises concerns about the safety and well-being of law-abiding citizens.
Among those taken into custody were two known gang members. Manuel Vasquez-Gavarrete, a Honduran national and member of the 18th Street gang, had previously been deported from the United States. Humberto Pozada-Rodriguez, also from Honduras, is a previously deported member of the notorious MS-13 gang. His criminal history includes convictions for trespassing, disorderly conduct, providing false information to law enforcement, and multiple counts of illegal entry. He has also been arrested for assault on a police officer, larceny, and receiving stolen goods.
Commander Gregory K. Bovino emphasized that those arrested have “significant criminal and immigration history,” highlighting the importance of enforcing immigration laws to protect American communities from potential threats.
The DHS has also released the names of other individuals apprehended during the operation. Leonel De Jesus Chinchea-Galvan, a Honduran citizen, faces charges of aggravated assault, assault with a deadly weapon, and driving while intoxicated. Hector Maldonado-Garay, who had been previously deported, has convictions for multiple counts of simple assault, aggravated assault, and shoplifting. Rony Anibal Alvarado-Gonzalez has been convicted of driving while intoxicated and aggravated driving while intoxicated, and is currently charged with obstruction of justice.
These cases underscore the importance of maintaining secure borders and enforcing existing immigration laws. When individuals enter the country illegally and then commit crimes, it places an undue burden on our law enforcement and judicial systems, and more importantly, endangers our communities.
Luis Osorio-Hernandez, a Mexican national, has convictions for possession of stolen goods and illegal entry. He is also charged with assaulting a female while intoxicated. Karelia Estefania Torres-Izaguirre, from Honduras, has an outstanding warrant from the Charlotte Sheriff’s Office for failure to appear in court on felony larceny charges. Yonis Alexander Granado-Arevalo, a citizen of El Salvador, is charged with illegal entry and has an outstanding warrant from the Washington, D.C. Police Department.
The operation has sparked some protests, with a gathering at First Ward Park where demonstrators voiced concerns about the impact of immigration enforcement on the local immigrant community.
Mayor Vi Lyles addressed these concerns, stating that the city stands with those feeling anxious or fearful. She said the city will continue to work with community leaders, legal advocates, and service providers to ensure resources, information, and support remain available.
While acknowledging the concerns of some residents, it is crucial to recognize the government’s responsibility to enforce the law and prioritize the safety and security of all citizens. A nation without borders is not a nation at all, and the consistent application of our immigration laws is essential for maintaining order and protecting the rule of law. Ensuring that those who enter our country follow legal procedures is not only fair to those who have done so, but also protects the integrity of our system and the safety of our communities.
