• ICE and Florida officials announced nearly 800 arrests in a four-day operation targeting undocumented immigrants.
• The operation, dubbed "Operation Tidal Wave," used the ICE 287(g) authority to collaborate with local law enforcement.
• More than 275 of those arrested had final deportation orders, according to ICE data.
• Advocates expressed concern over family separations as a result of the arrests.
• This operation marks a significant escalation in immigration enforcement under the current administration.

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), alongside Florida law enforcement agencies, has arrested approximately 780 undocumented migrants during a four-day operation beginning Monday, labeled "Operation Tidal Wave." The operation utilized ICE's 287(g) authority, which allows local law enforcement to assist in identifying and apprehending individuals living illegally in the U.S., focusing particularly on those with final deportation orders, according to ABC News.

This operation marks a significant collaboration between state and federal agencies, as it is the first instance of a formal 287(g) agreement being implemented in Florida. Todd Lyons, the acting ICE director, stated, "This is one of the first large-scale missions we've done like this ever," emphasizing the comprehensive approach of involving local units to enhance public safety efforts, according to The New York Times and Newsweek.

The operation is seen as an escalation of immigration enforcement, with over 275 individuals having final removal orders being apprehended. This significant action is reflective of the Trump administration's ongoing efforts to ensure quicker deportation processes, which have previously faced criticism for being well below administration goals, as reported by ABC News, The New York Times, and India Times.