Border Patrol Launches Immigration Enforcement Operation in Charlotte

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents commenced an immigration enforcement operation in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Saturday, November 15, 2025. The initiative, named "Charlotte's Web," led to the arrest of 81 individuals on its first day. Commander Gregory K. Bovino stated that many of those apprehended had significant criminal and immigration histories.

The operation began Saturday morning, with the first reported sighting on South Boulevard, near Baleada Bar and Grill. As of Sunday morning, agents resumed making arrests. Bovino posted about four arrests on his X feed, stating each person has a criminal history and emphasizing the purpose of CBP's presence in Charlotte.

Charlotte marks the first city where CBP said it will spearhead immigration enforcement without coordinating with Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the same location. While ICE has conducted arrests in Charlotte previously, that agency was not coordinating with Border Patrol during Saturday's operation.

The operation has elicited varied responses from local officials and residents. Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles and Mecklenburg County Commission Chairman Mark Jerrell, along with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education Chairwoman Stephanie Sneed, issued a joint statement expressing support for all residents contributing to the community.

Community members have also voiced their concerns. Hundreds gathered for a protest at First Ward Park in Uptown on Saturday, condemning the operations for instilling fear within Charlotte’s immigrant community.

The agency has not released detailed information about the nature of the operation or its duration in Charlotte.