Border Patrol arrests 250+ in Charlotte as Operation Charlotte's Web draws protests

Operation Charlotte's Web ran from Nov. 15-20, 2025, making over 370 arrests in Charlotte, NC. Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino led the operation, reporting directly to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem as 'commander-at-large'—a rank with no statutory basis. DHS said the operation targeted people with criminal histories, including gang members and those convicted of assaults, DUIs, and thefts.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police and the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office refused to participate, confirming they don't assist with ICE civil warrants. This marked the first time CBP spearheaded immigration enforcementImmigration EnforcementGovernment actions to enforce immigration laws, including deportation, detention, border enforcement, and workplace raids.Key ConceptImmigration EnforcementGovernment actions to enforce immigration laws, including deportation, detention, border enforcement, and workplace raids.Open conceptBookmark without coordinating with ICE in the same location. The city follows a policy of not honoring federal immigration detainers without judicial warrants.

Mayor Vi Lyles (D) called the operation an 'intrusion' and expressed concern about videos showing enforcement activities. Governor Josh Stein (D) accused agents of 'racially profiling and picking up random people' and 'stoking fear.' Rep. Alma Adams (D-NC-12) called it 'an inhumane and unnecessary campaign of terror.'

Protests erupted across Charlotte, including a large rally at First Ward Park

Hundreds of students held walkouts

Hispanic-owned businesses closed School absences nearly tripled in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, where Hispanic students are the second-largest group.

After leaving Charlotte on Nov. 20, Border Patrol moved operations to Raleigh and then New Orleans. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said 'Operation Charlotte's Web isn't ending anytime soon'—indicating the operation name would continue in other cities.