Texas Launches Major Operation Targeting Undocumented Immigrants in Colony Ridge

NEW CANEY, Texas — A joint state and federal law enforcement operation targeting alleged “criminals and illegal immigrants” took place Monday morning in the Colony Ridge development, approximately 30 miles northeast of Houston. Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced the initiative via social media, stating it was a culmination of months of collaboration with Tom Homan, appointed as a border czar by former President Donald Trump.

According to Abbott’s post on X, formerly known as Twitter, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is assisting U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) during this operation specifically aimed at apprehending individuals involved in criminal activities and illegal immigration within the 33,000-acre development. Abbott wrote, “Colony Ridge is being targeted today. Texas DPS Troopers & Special Agents are assisting Homeland Security Investigations with an operation in Colony Ridge this morning.”

This operation follows a lawsuit filed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in March 2024 against the developers of Colony Ridge, alleging deceptive trade practices, real estate fraud, and violations of other state and federal laws. The lawsuits claim that the developers misled foreign-born and Hispanic consumers, often selling land without essential infrastructure, leading to high foreclosure rates among buyers.

Liberty County, where Colony Ridge is situated, is home to an estimated 40,000 residents, many of whom are Hispanic immigrants. The community has been criticized by Republican leaders, who have labeled it as a hotspot for undocumented immigrants and crime. They assert that the developers have sold inexpensive land primarily to individuals with limited credit access over the past decade.

As of now, further details concerning the number of arrests or other enforcement actions resulting from the operation have not been made public. Local officials in Liberty County were reportedly unaware of the operation prior to Abbott’s announcement. Liberty County Judge Jay Knight expressed his surprise, stating, “Would’ve been nice if the government let us know. I wasn’t informed about anything. It’s news to me.”

The heightened scrutiny of Colony Ridge intensified during the 2024 election season, with anti-immigration rhetoric amplifying government interest. Previous investigations by local law enforcement and the DPS have found no evidence supporting claims of cartel involvement within the community.

In September 2023, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick flew a helicopter over Colony Ridge and affirmed complaints from right-wing critics that it was functioning as a de facto sanctuary for immigrants. In addition to his earlier announcements, Governor Abbott directed state lawmakers to address issues related to Colony Ridge during a special session in the fall of 2023, resulting only in increased patrolling by DPS officers.

The Harris brothers, John and Trey, who own Colony Ridge, have denied allegations against them, describing the lawsuits as baseless. In past statements, John Harris characterized the allegations as inflammatory. A spokesperson for the Harris family was not available for comment on Monday morning.

In conclusion, the ongoing operation reflects a significant step in the state’s efforts to confront illegal immigration and criminal activity in communities such as Colony Ridge. As authorities continue their work, more updates are expected to clarify the developments surrounding this operation.