The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is revising its approach to immigration enforcement, moving away from broad raids targeting all illegal immigrants and focusing instead on those with serious criminal records, according to a recent report.
U.S. Border Patrol Commander at Large Gregory Bovino will lead teams that prioritize individuals convicted of significant offenses, NewsNation reported.
The new strategy marks a departure from large-scale operations at locations such as Home Depot stores and other public sites, where agents have previously detained immigrants based on characteristics including ethnicity, language, or location.
While routine traffic enforcement will continue, officials indicate that Border Patrol is unlikely to conduct mass street arrests as in the past.
The shift comes as public opinion appears increasingly critical of mass deportation policies under former President Donald Trump. A recent Public Religion Research Institute survey found approval of Trump’s immigration policies fell from 42% in March to 33%.
Similarly, a YouGov poll revealed that most Americans oppose Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations tied to the former president’s crackdown. A joint KFF–New York Times survey found that about half of immigrants reported feeling less safe under Trump’s administration.
Border Patrol has conducted raids in cities including Los Angeles, Chicago, and Charlotte, sparking protests and legal challenges over concerns that enforcement actions have gone too far.
Despite the revised strategy, some operations will continue. In New Orleans, the ongoing initiative dubbed “Catahoula Crunch” has already resulted in over 250 arrests, with DHS aiming to reach 5,000, according to NewsNation.
Gregory Bovino, pictured with ICE officers in Los Angeles, will continue overseeing federal agents as the department implements these changes.
