Immigration and Customs Enforcement confirmed today that what it called the San Antonio 'area of responsibility' was one of the five cities nationwide where immigration agents were conducting arrests and deportations over the past five days, News Radio 1200 WOAI news reports.
The other places the raids took place were Los Angeles, New York City, Atlanta, and Chicago.
Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly said of the 680 people were were arrested, 75% of them were 'criminal aliens,' who were facing charges in the U.S. ranging from DWI to rape to murder.
"These operations targeted public safety threats, such as convicted criminal aliens and gang members, as well as individuals who have violated our nation's immigration laws, including those who illegally re-entered the country after being removed, and immigration fugitives ordered removed by federal judges," Kelly said.
Kelly rejected any implication that the activity was related to President Trump's 'get tough policy on illegal immigrants. He says ICE has carried out raids like this on a regular basis for years.
"President Trump has ben clear in affirming the critical mission of DHS in protecting the nation and directed out department to focus on removing ilelgal aliens," Kelly said.
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