A coordinated law‑enforcement effort in Fort Myers detained 500 illegal immigrants over a four‑day period, according to ICE and partner agencies.

Multi‑Agency Operation Details

The sweep, conducted from Aug. 24 to Aug. 27, involved ICE, the Florida Highway Patrol, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Florida National Guard, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and additional local partners. The agencies worked together to locate and detain individuals who were in the country without legal status.

Criminal Backgrounds Among Detainees

Among those arrested were individuals with final orders of removal and repeat immigration violators. The operation also captured several persons with criminal histories, including domestic violence, drug offenses, DUI, assault, and other violent crimes. Notably, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office seized a Haitian national facing six pre‑meditated murder charges, while ICE and the Highway Patrol detained a Mexican cartel member and a Honduran accused of molesting two children.

"The continued success of these weeklong operations is a testament to the power of unity and our shared commitment to community safety," said Matthew Elliston, interim Field Office Director for ICE’s ERO Miami.

Community Impact and Response

Officials highlighted the operation as a demonstration of “unity” among federal, state, and local partners to protect public safety. Community leaders have expressed mixed reactions, with some praising the removal of individuals deemed a threat, while advocacy groups caution against broad sweeps that may affect families and due process rights.

Key Facts

• Operation dates: Aug. 24‑27, 2026
• Location: Fort Myers, Lee County, FL
• Number detained: 500 illegal immigrants
• Agencies involved: ICE, Florida Highway Patrol, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Florida National Guard, FWC, CBP, and others
• Criminal charges identified: Murder, cartel affiliation, child molestation, domestic violence, drug offenses, DUI, assault
• Current status: Detainees processed for removal; investigations ongoing for criminal cases

Looking Ahead

The detainees will face immigration hearings to determine removal eligibility. Those with criminal charges will be referred to appropriate criminal courts for prosecution. Authorities say they will continue to hold joint operations when intelligence indicates a threat to community safety, while emphasizing the need for due process for every individual involved.