• Operation "Catahoula Crunch" targets undocumented immigrants in New Orleans.
• The initiative emphasizes violent offenders released under local sanctuary policies.
• National Guard deployment in support of federal immigration enforcement is expected.
• Local officials express concerns about aggressive tactics and community impact.
• Residents fear for their safety and the wellbeing of their families amid raids.

The Trump administration's Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has launched an immigration enforcement operation in New Orleans, dubbed "Operation Catahoula Crunch," targeting undocumented individuals, particularly violent offenders released under local sanctuary policies. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated that the initiative aims to remove "criminal illegal aliens" to restore law and order in the community, insisting that "sanctuary policies endanger American communities" by allowing these individuals to remain free, according to Reuters, CBS News, Los Angeles Times, and Al Jazeera.

The operation comes as the Trump administration continues its crackdown on immigration in cities led by Democrats, with New Orleans being the latest target. The local Democratic mayor and community leaders have expressed concerns about the operation's aggressive approach, highlighting previous incidents where Border Patrol had been accused of using excessive force against civilians and non-criminals, according to The Hill and Le Monde.

Approximately 200 Border Patrol agents are reported to have been deployed for this operation. The National Guard deployment has been mentioned as part of future efforts to enhance federal presence in New Orleans. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry supports these actions, stating that they are aimed at addressing violent crime, while local officials argue that this federal involvement may not align with the community's needs, as expressed by local council member Lesli Harris, who noted the heightened fear among residents, according to India Times and CBS News.

Local business owners and immigrant rights advocates have raised alarms about the impact of such operations on families and communities. Many immigrants express feelings of insecurity about their legal status and fear being separated from their families during these raids, as highlighted by testimonies from local residents who have taken measures to protect themselves from potential immigration enforcement actions, according to Los Angeles Times and Al Jazeera.