Surveillance Intensifies as Immigration Crackdown Sparks Backlash in New Orleans

Mon Dec 08 2025 01:52:05 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Intelligence operations follow the recent arrests during 'Catahoula Crunch', revealing mixed public sentiment, accusations of racial profiling, and calls for transparency amid fears of civil liberties infringement.

Authorities in New Orleans are monitoring public discourse and sentiment as backlash grows against the immigration crackdown dubbed 'Catahoula Crunch'. Local leaders express concern over the operation's lack of transparency and its potential to chill free speech. While immigration officials assert the arrests target 'criminal illegal aliens', detailed records show that only a fraction have significant criminal histories. Critics argue that the action disproportionately affects communities of color, with increased online surveillance to address public reactions and ensure operational security.

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — State and federal authorities are monitoring online reactions and public demonstrations against the immigration enforcement operation known as 'Catahoula Crunch'. Messages about the operation are being tracked around the clock for threats and to gauge public sentiment, according to documents reviewed by the Associated Press.

The operation, which has resulted in arrests over the past week, has drawn criticism for its lack of transparency. Numerous local officials have reported being kept in the dark about operational details, as community groups voice concerns over civil liberties and racial profiling based on reported interactions with law enforcement.

According to recent intelligence briefings, public opinions on the crackdown are mixed, with some voicing support while others are actively opposing the actions of the immigration agents. Many activists and local leaders are advocating for greater transparency while expressing concern that the operation sets a dangerous precedent for targeting specific communities primarily based on race.

“It confirms what we already knew — this was not about public safety; it’s about stoking chaos and terrorizing communities,” said state Sen. Royce Duplessis. Authorities have maintained that the operation is focused on apprehending 'criminal illegal aliens,' yet documentation shows that only a minority of those arrested in the initial days had extensive criminal records.

In light of rising tensions, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and local law enforcement are collaborating closely, tracking social media activities and community organizing efforts as protests increase around the region. Activists report a heightened focus on their groups, with law enforcement claiming to prepare for any potential violence linked to public demonstrations.

Critics argue that the drastic measures taken during the 'Catahoula Crunch' are indicative of larger issues regarding immigration enforcement and racial profiling. New Orleans City Council President J.P. Morrell stated, “If the aim is to pursue violent criminals, why wouldn’t they be more forthcoming about their arrests?” Concerns have been raised over the operational justification given the profile of those detainees so far, including reports of a U.S. citizen being chased by ICE agents.

Amidst all this, there is significant discussion on online forums about the rising apprehension within immigrant communities and the effectiveness of grassroots activism as a counter-movement against immigration enforcement actions.