East Tennessee ICE Operation Leads To Over 100 Illegal Alien Arrests

Image Credit: ICE.gov

Tennessee Conservative News [By Olivia Lupia] –

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) New Orleans announced the completion of a weeklong joint operation in East Tennessee which resulted in the arrest of 117 illegal aliens, many of whom had existing convictions for offenses like assault, DWI, and attempted sexual battery.

According to a press release by ICE New Orleans the targeted enforcement operation in partnership with federal, state, and local law enforcement took place from May 24 to May 31 in Sevier County and surrounding areas.

Among those arrested were “criminal illegal aliens with convictions for theft, domestic assault, driving while intoxicated, and attempted aggravated sexual battery. Some of those arrested may face additional criminal charges for illegal reentry into the United States.”

“This enforcement operation demonstrates our commitment to protecting the safety of the community and its visitors,” said acting Field Office Director Brian Acuna. “By focusing our enforcement efforts on individuals who pose the greatest risk, and with the support of our 287(g) partners, we help ensure Tennessee communities remain safe for residents and tourists.” 

The Sevier County Sheriff’s Office joined the 287(g) program in October of 2025, allowing officers to enforce limited immigration authority during routine police duties.

A new law passed by the General Assembly during the 2026 legislative session requires all Tennessee Sheriff’s departments to participate in the program through February of 2029, though over 50 law enforcement agencies across the state were already enrolled prior to the legislation as both federal and state incentives have bolstered participation.

“In partnership with ICE and other area law enforcement agencies, the Sevierville Police Department is working to create safer streets, protect families, and ensure Sevierville, Sevier County, and East Tennessee remain great places to live, work, and enjoy,” said Sevierville Police Deputy Chief Sam Hinson of the operation’s success.

On June 2, an ICE spokesperson said the 287g partnerships are “critical to having the resources we need to arrest criminal illegal aliens across the state. The fact of the matter is those who are in our country illegally have a choice- they can leave the country voluntarily or be arrested and deported. The United States is offering illegal aliens $2,600 and a free flight to self-deport now. We encourage every person here illegally to take advantage of this offer and reserve the chance to come back to the U.S. the right legal way to live the American dream. If not, you will be arrested and deported without a chance to return.”

ICE has the authority to “immediately remove” illegal aliens with final orders of removal who reentered the country after their initial removal and has reiterated that those without final removal orders will remain in ICE custody pending immigration court proceedings while receiving “full due process”.

“All illegal aliens who violate U.S. immigration law are subject to arrest and detention, regardless of their criminal histories,” the agency stated.

Olivia Lupia is a political refugee from Colorado who now calls Tennessee home. A proud follower of Christ, she views all political happenings through a Biblical lens and aims to utilize her knowledge and experience to educate and equip others. Olivia is an outspoken conservative who has run for local office, managed campaigns, and been highly involved with state & local GOPs, state legislatures, and other grassroots organizations and movements. Olivia can be reached at olivia@tennesseeconservativenews.com.