CADILLAC, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Fourteen illegal aliens from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico were arrested during Operation Fresh Catch in northern Michigan, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Detainees Taken to Baldwin
The operation, conducted jointly by ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Detroit and the U.S. Forest Service, took place in the Cadillac and Manistee areas on Oct. 10.
ICE said the operation followed reports from Forest Service officers of an increased number of fishing violations involving foreign nationals without proper identification.
All 14 were transported to the North Lake Processing Center in Baldwin pending further immigration proceedings, according to ICE’s Nov. 6 announcement.
“ERO will continue working with the U.S. Forest Service and other law enforcement partners to safeguard Michigan’s public lands, protect natural resources and uphold federal immigration laws,” said ERO Detroit Field Office Director Matthew Putra. “Our coordinated efforts promote public safety and help ensure that those who violate immigration laws are held accountable.”
Prior Deportations and Removal Orders
ICE said one person arrested has a DUI conviction. Three had previously been deported and are subject to reinstated final orders of removal.
Another was described by ICE as an immigration absconder who now has a final removal order. One other person failed to depart the United States voluntarily and has since been issued a final removal order.
ICE said all 14 violated U.S. immigration laws. The release did not specify whether any face separate fishing-related charges.
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The agency said it will continue identifying, arresting and removing illegal aliens in accordance with the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement and public safety priorities.
Suspected crimes and suspicious activity can be reported to ICE at 866-347-2423 or through its online tip form.
