ICE Raids Across six Midwest States Ends in 331 Arrests

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials (ICE) have nabbed 331 people in a series of raids targeting undocumented immigrants across six Midwest states.

The sweeps were carried out in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Kentucky, Kansas and Missouri and are described as targeting those previously convicted of crimes and other immigration related violations.

Sweeps Spanned More Than a Month

The operation took part over a five week period, spanning from May 9 to earlier this month. As many as 107 people are reported to have been arrested in Chicago, with another 25 apprehensions coming in the Indianapolis area.

"Our dedicated officers strive to make our communities safer by arresting convicted criminal aliens and removing them from the United States," said Ricardo Wong, field officer director for Enforcement and Removal Operations in Chicago. "By focusing our resources on the most egregious offenders, we ensure the very best use of our resources while immediately improving public safety."

ICE officials noted of the 25 arrest in Indiana, 23 of the suspects have previously been convicted of crimes in the U.S. ranging from drugs to fraud to domestic violence. In Illinois, 96 of those arrested had been convicted of crimes including robbery, aggravated sexual abuse and weapons offenses.

"Those arrested who have outstanding orders of deportation, or who returned to the United States illegally after being deported, are subject to immediate removal from the country," according to a statement from ICE.

Remaining individuals are awaiting a hearing with an immigration judge.

Kansas City Reported to Have 39 Arrests

Reports are there were also 39 arrests made in the Kansas City area, including that of a 25-year-old Mexican national and documented Sur 13 gang member with a prior conviction for sexual assault and an outstanding warrant for deportation, which has since been executed.

In another case, a 28-year-old Mexican national with a prior conviction for weapons violations was arrested and remains in the custody of Ice officials pending the outcome of deportation proceedings.