• Federal immigration officers are set to target over 300 individuals with violent crime histories after Donald Trump's inauguration as President.
• The operation will mainly occur in the Chicago region, contrasting with previous immigration policies under President Biden.
• Immigration advocates urge the community to be aware of their rights as deportation operations are set to begin next week.
• Illinois officials have reaffirmed their commitments to protecting undocumented immigrants despite federal crackdowns.
• Weather conditions could delay the commencement of operations as freezing temperatures are expected in the area.

As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office, federal immigration officers are planning a significant operation targeting over 300 individuals in the Chicago area with records of serious, violent crimes. This announcement marks the first major action of Trump's administration aimed at realizing his campaign promise of expansive deportations. The operation is expected to unfold over the coming week, according to a source speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the plans, which have not been publicly disclosed.

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) typically apprehends only a fraction of its intended targets during such operations, but Trump is expected to broaden the scope beyond the prior restrictions imposed under President Joe Biden, whose approach mainly focused on individuals at the border with serious criminal histories and national security concerns. Trump's administration has indicated that it aims to also apprehend (HuffPost) individuals not directly targeted, including spouses or roommates of suspects who are in the country illegally.

Tom Homan, the incoming border czar, made clear in a recent statement, "We’re going to take the handcuffs off ICE and let them go arrest criminal aliens." He added that enforcement will prioritize public safety threats, but "no one is off the table," highlighting the comprehensive nature of the government's immigration enforcement strategy under Trump. In his own remarks, Trump reiterated the urgency of mass deportations, insisting that they will commence "very early, very quickly” following his inauguration.

Concerns about the impact of these operations have prompted immigrant advocacy groups to prepare their communities, especially in Chicago, which has historically established itself as a sanctuary city with robust protections for undocumented residents. Amid ongoing criticism from Trump, local leaders, including Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, have expressed their commitment to maintaining these protections. "We won’t back off those commitments," Johnson stated, referring to the city’s dedication to safeguarding its immigrant population, even labeling Trump's deportation strategy as "small and soft."

The fear of deportations is palpable among Chicago's immigrant communities, especially with leaders warning that ICE operations often occur without proper warrants. Advocates are actively working to empower residents by ensuring they understand their rights, including the ability to remain silent and the prohibition against unwarranted entry into their homes. (L.A. Times) reported that community organizations are developing systems for notifying individuals about ICE activities, with the aim of enhancing awareness and preparedness.

During a recent press conference, Democratic Representatives Jesus Garcia and Delia Ramirez reassured immigrants to stay calm and advised them to exercise their rights amid this climate of uncertainty. "We are being tested once again," Garcia stated, emphasizing the community's resilience and experience in standing against such challenges. As the situation continues to develop, many are left grappling with the implications of these federal actions and the potential repercussions for families living in fear.

For further insights, read the full articles from (AP News), (HuffPost), and (L.A. Times).