New Orleans leaders are demanding answers after a week of heightened immigration enforcement triggered fear, confusion, and public outcry across Southeast Louisiana.
According to The Associated Press, the concerns erupted after multiple encounters between masked federal agents and residents — interactions that city officials say are eroding trust and disrupting daily life.
One of those encounters, captured on security video, has become a flashpoint.
Jacelynn Guzman was returning from a grocery trip in Marrero on Wednesday when a truck stopped beside her, and two masked agents stepped out. A second vehicle pulled up moments later as she ran toward her family’s home.
Her mother has lived in the neighborhood for decades, and Guzman shouted back at the agents, “We’re legal, we are from here, born and raised … Don’t chase me, that is disgusting.”
The sweep involves several hundred agents sent to the region under Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino.
Federal officials say the mission aims to arrest 5,000 people and is part of a broader immigration crackdown. DHS has announced dozens of arrests so far, though details remain limited.
But city officials, community advocates, and residents say the operation is far broader and more disruptive than advertised.
Mayor-elect Helena Moreno stood with city council members, Hispanic leaders, civil rights groups, and Democratic Rep. Troy Carter on Friday to voice what she called “deep concern over recent actions.” Businesses have closed, workers are staying home, and families are afraid to venture outside, she said.
While federal officials insist they are focused on “dangerous criminals,” Moreno pushed back.
“That does not appear to be the case,” she said.
Moreno is now demanding regular public briefings from federal authorities — including data on stops, detentions, charges, warrants, and any violent criminal histories — to determine whether the operation is being conducted appropriately.
“Without this full visibility into these enforcement actions, it is impossible to determine whether this particular operation is actually targeting the most dangerous offenders,” she said.
Guzman’s stepfather, Juan Anglin, said he ran outside after hearing her screams. He believed she fled because she was surrounded by aggressive, masked men she did not recognize.
“I thought she was going to be kidnapped, honestly,” Anglin said. “I thought somebody was going to hurt her.”
DHS later said the agents were searching for a “criminal illegal alien previously charged with felony theft” and that Guzman “matched the description.” The agency said the agents identified themselves and left once they realized she was not their target.
Anglin disputed that explanation, arguing that his stepdaughter was singled out based on appearance alone.
“Just because you look brown, you look Hispanic, you’re going to get stopped,” he said. “Because now it doesn’t matter you have papers, you speak English or you are a citizen, it’s not enough.”
As the operation continues, city leaders warn that the fallout may intensify unless federal agencies change course — and offer transparency.
