Trump administration conducts large-scale deportation (includes video story)

A large-scale federal immigration operation over the weekend resulted in nearly 1,000 arrests, with enforcement efforts continuing in cities across the country.

The Trump administration claims the operation targets undocumented individuals with criminal records and minor legal infractions, but concerns are growing among families and communities about the potential for broader detentions. Some cities are taking protective measures as additional National Guard troops are deployed to the US-Mexico border.

“I had a four-year-old crying, fearing deportation,” said Pastor Julie Contreras from the United Giving Hope sanctuary church in Waukegan, Illinois.

“They’re going after people who are law-abiding, who are holding down jobs, who may have been here for a decade or two decades,” said Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker.

John Sandweg, ICE’s former acting director under the Obama administration, highlighted that any other undocumented family member in the same household as the intended target will also be detained and deported by Trump, regardless of prior legal issues.

Gabriela Flores is a junior majoring in Digital Journalism and Broadcasting with a minor certificate in International Relations. She wishes to pursue a career in the film industry and work for the United Nations.