Miramar, FL -- The Department of Homeland Security announced the arrest of more than 150 illegal immigrants convicted of sex crimes during a major enforcement operation across Florida. The operation, officially known as Operation Criminal Return but referred to by DHS Secretary Kristi Noem as "Operation Dirtbag," was conducted in partnership with state and local law enforcement agencies through the 287(g) program.
The enforcement surge targeted some of the most dangerous criminals in the state. Those arrested faced convictions including sexual assault of minors, rape, lewd and lascivious conduct, child exploitation, battery, and attempted homicide. In total, more than 230 criminal immigrants were arrested during the operation, with sexual offenders comprising 150 of those arrests.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized the focus on protecting children. "I call this Operation Dirtbag because these individuals were not just sex offenders, they TARGETED CHILDREN. Some of the charges include sexual assault, battery, attempted homicide. These 150 illegal aliens will be gone and off our streets," Noem said. "Our kids will be safer. This partnership with Governor Ron DeSantis and Florida is a model we want to replicate across the country."
The operation represents what federal officials describe as a shift in immigration enforcement priorities. Under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Noem, officials say the era of catch-and-release policies has ended. Instead, the focus is on identifying and removing the most violent criminal illegal aliens from communities.
Operation Criminal Return exemplifies what officials call a new era of law and order in immigration enforcement, with an emphasis on public safety and protecting vulnerable populations, particularly children, from predatory criminals.