According to The New York Times, U.S. Border Patrol agents have been sent to Charlotte under the leadership of Gregory Bovino, who previously dealt with operations against illegal immigration in cities such as Chicago and Los Angeles.
Trisha McLaughlin, a representative of the Department of Homeland Security, confirmed the deployment of additional forces to Charlotte. She stated that the main goal of these actions is to "ensure the safety of U.S. citizens" and allow residents to "live without fear of criminal illegal immigrants." However, she did not provide further details.
NBC News reports that the first arrests have already been made. Nevertheless, local authorities expressed their concerns, noting that such measures could increase fear and tension in the community. They urged citizens to remain calm and avoid conflicts with law enforcement.
The Bloomberg publication reminds that heightened attention to the situation in Charlotte arose after a tragic incident in August, when 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee Irina Zarutska was killed on a tram. The murder was committed by American Dekarlos Brown, who had several arrests on his record but was released on bail each time. U.S. President Donald Trump stated at the time that Brown is a repeat offender.
