Federal Immigration Crackdown in Charlotte Sparks Outrage

Charlotte, North Carolina — Federal immigration officials launched a major operation called Operation Charlotte’s Web on Sunday, targeting individuals selling flowers along the roadside. This crackdown comes amid widespread immigration enforcement and deportations across the country.

Martha White, granddaughter of the beloved author E.B. White, strongly criticized the operation, stating it contradicts the themes of compassion and generosity found in her grandfather’s famous book, “Charlotte’s Web.” In her statement, she expressed that her grandfather would not have supported the use of fear tactics by federal agents.

“He certainly didn’t believe in masked men, in unmarked cars, raiding people’s homes,” said White. “He believed in the rule of law and due process.” Her criticism came as Gregory Bovino, a top Border Patrol official, embraced the book’s title in a social media post linked to the operation, further fueling the controversy.

As part of the initiative, authorities arrested 81 individuals in Charlotte over a single weekend. This surge in immigration enforcement targets those the Trump administration deems as criminal illegal aliens. Critics argue these operations disproportionately affect communities of color and create an atmosphere of fear.

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein denounced the tactics used during the operation, stating, “We’ve seen masked, heavily armed agents in paramilitary garb targeting American citizens based on their skin color.” Stein’s comments underscore the growing backlash against immigration crackdowns.

Many local businesses were impacted by the enforcement action, including a Colombian bakery that closed temporarily for safety. “I need to protect my customers and my family,” said Manuel “Manolo” Betancur, the bakery owner, who witnessed the aggressive enforcement firsthand.

This controversy isn’t unique to Charlotte. Similar criticisms arose during previous operations, such as Operation Midway Blitz in Chicago, where the family of a victim of a tragic crime objected to their loved one’s association with an immigration crackdown.

Martha White emphasized the importance of speaking out against misrepresentation and cruelty. “It’s important to know when to speak up—to expose the lies or misperceptions,” she said, defending the humane values her grandfather promoted in his work.

CNN has reached out to the Department of Homeland Security for comments regarding the backlash and Martha White’s remarks.