Texas has been ramping up border security measures recently, with significant operations aimed at cracking down on illegal immigration and associated criminal activities. A recent series of arrests near Houston has spotlighted the state's aggressive stance as local authorities and the federal government intensify their efforts to combat illegal immigration.
Early on Monday, around 90 individuals classified as illegal migrants were apprehended during operations targeting criminal elements within the Colony Ridge community, located just outside of Houston. According to Texas Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) played a key role in the operation alongside Homeland Security Investigations. Governor Abbott announced the operation on social media, stating it was part of “a larger criminal investigation.”
Tom Homan, known as the “border czar,” emphasized the depth of the operation, clarifying, “This is something a little different today,” referring to the comprehensive nature of the law enforcement activity aimed at organized criminal networks. Homan acknowledged the criminal backgrounds of many of those arrested, including several individuals with warrants out for their arrest. “The last number I saw was around 69 criminals,” Homan noted, adding, “I know for a fact, several child sexual predators were arrested.”
Notably, the operation did not target the broader community but rather specific individuals identified as threats. Homan pressed on the importance of prioritizing safety, stating, “Just because you prioritize one thing doesn’t mean you forget the other,” reinforcing the approach of enforcing laws against all undocumented individuals.
This increased focus on enforcement activities follows the announcement from Starr County, which recently declared a disaster to qualify for additional funding through the state's Operation Lone Star initiative. Leading counties along the border are turning to this funding mechanism, as they seek financial support to handle the costs associated with migrant arrivals and processing. Starr County Judge Eloy Vera explained the necessity of signing the disaster declaration, which was previously resisted. “We would lose anywhere between $5 to $8 million... I’m not going to do anything to jeopardize the county,” he said.
This shift to declare disaster status reflects the growing involvement of Texas lawmakers, who have pledged $6.5 billion toward border security efforts over the next two years. Governor Abbott initiated Operation Lone Star back in 2021, citing concerns over the increasing number of migrant crossings during the Biden administration. The state has since deployed National Guard soldiers and DPS officers to the border, aiming to bolster law enforcement presence.
While the number of migrant encounters at the Texas-Mexico border has reportedly declined, some areas, such as Starr County, have experienced surges significant enough to warrant state-level disaster declarations. With additional grants available under Operation Lone Star, officials can fund investigations and enforce measures against border-related crimes.
The increased focus on illegal migration also raises concerns among activist groups who have been active within the Colony Ridge community. Organizations like FIEL Houston have reminded residents of their rights during these enforcement sweeps, stressing the importance of being informed. The community, which is predominantly Latino, has faced scrutiny over allegations of exploitation tied to its development practices.
John Harris, CEO of Colony Ridge, has shown support for the operations, affirming the community’s commitment to safety. He expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts by local authorities and noted, “DPS officers have been working throughout Colony Ridge for more than two years. They know who the bad guys are.”
The recent operations also play out against the backdrop of broader federal immigration policies and Trump administration-era deportation plans. Law enforcement officials have indicated they will continue to operate under current immigration laws, which stipulate accountability for illegal entry regardless of criminal history.
This strong stance has resulted in increased visibility for border-related initiatives, and negotiations with state and federal levels are likely to endure as communities seek to balance enforcement with the humanitarian needs of migrants. Cases like the recent arrests involving substantial drug seizures highlight the dual-focus of law enforcement efforts, tackling both the immigration crisis amid growing substance abuse problems.
Although some counties have faced challenges due to changes departing from previously successful funding programs like the Local Border Security Program, they now look to Operation Lone Star to provide necessary resources. Hidalgo County is also eyeing these funds for the first time, as the elimination of state aid for border projects has increased the urgency to secure local safety and manage immigration-related issues.
“If we want these funds we’re going to have to apply,” Sheriff J.E. Guerra of Hidalgo County stated, indicating the necessity of local law enforcement's proactive posture. Despite hesitations about potential charges against migrants, he asserted, “the current low levels of migrant crossings lead him to believe there won’t be many of those cases.”
Overall, these measures reflect Texas' bold and multifaceted approach to immigration and border security, balancing law enforcement priorities against community needs amid political pressures and changing federal policies. Whether it be through direct law enforcement engagement or securing additional funding, Texas appears committed to maintaining its strong border security posture.