Authorities have detained nearly 100 individuals as part of a coordinated operation involving the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) and U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE). This includes convicted child sex offenders and members of the Tren de Aragua gang.
ICE reported that 94 people were detained for further investigation during this operation, as highlighted in a THP news release.
In the operation, suspected gang members were encountered, which also led to the recovery of illegal drugs and firearms. Throughout about 370 traffic stops, THP noted various arrests: four individuals with felony warrants, two arrested for drug-related offenses, one for child endangerment, and two for driving under the influence.
THP emphasized its focus on traffic law enforcement while maintaining a supportive role in public safety efforts requested by ICE. If any individuals found to be illegally residing in the country were involved during traffic stops, those cases would be investigated separately according to federal law.
Officials maintained that the primary responsibility of THP is to enforce traffic laws effectively and fairly, aiming to conduct legal stops based solely on observable violations.
The operation reportedly included fewer than twelve troopers, all of whom contributed to its success.
