ICE Operation “At Large” Gains Momentum with USBP Support

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has launched Operation “At Large,” a nationwide enforcement initiative aimed at apprehending undocumented immigrants, particularly those with criminal records or final removal orders. The U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) Headquarters and field sectors are rallying behind this operation, calling for a robust volunteer cadre to support enforcement efforts across large and small cities in the United States.

Volunteer Deployment Details

According to internal communications, USBP is seeking volunteers, including managers (1896s) and Border Patrol Processing Coordinators (BPPCs), to participate in this operation. The duties will be enforcement-centric, focusing on targeted apprehensions in coordination with ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). While specific deployment locations and durations are still being finalized, volunteers should expect assignments in diverse urban and rural settings nationwide.

Context and Scope

Operation “At Large” aligns with ICE’s mission to prioritize public safety and national security by targeting individuals who pose significant threats, such as violent offenders, gang members, and fugitives. Recent ICE operations, like the record-breaking Operation Tidal Wave in Florida (April 2025), which resulted in 1,120 arrests, demonstrate the agency’s focus on large-scale, coordinated efforts with federal, state, and local partners.

USBP’s role will complement ICE’s efforts, leveraging its personnel to bolster interior enforcement. Unlike USBP’s primary mission of securing borders between ports of entry, this operation extends to interior cities, where ERO officers typically conduct targeted arrests. The collaboration underscores the Trump administration’s emphasis on expanding immigration enforcement, as evidenced by recent executive actions and increased partnerships with state agencies.

What to Expect

• Enforcement Focus: Volunteers will assist in identifying and apprehending priority targets, likely including individuals with criminal convictions or immigration violations.

• Flexible Deployments: Assignments may vary in length and location, with details forthcoming as ICE and USBP finalize logistics.

• Interagency Collaboration: USBP personnel will work alongside ICE ERO, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and potentially other agencies like the FBI, DEA, and state law enforcement, as seen in recent operations in El Paso.

Why It Matters

Operation “At Large” reflects a broader push to strengthen immigration enforcement, building on policies like the 287(g) program, which trains state and local officers to assist ICE. With USBP’s support, ICE aims to maximize its reach, targeting an estimated 34,000 individuals held in detention daily across 500 facilities. This operation could set a precedent for future joint efforts, raising questions about resource allocation and the balance between border security and interior enforcement.