ICE Conducts Major Immigration Raid in Tallahassee, Arresting Over 100
TALLAHASSEE, FL — In a sweeping operation on May 29, 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), supported by multiple state and federal agencies, arrested more than 100 individuals suspected of being in the country illegally at a construction site near Florida State University.
Details of the Operation
The raid, one of the largest in North Florida under the current administrations, targeted construction sites, including a major student housing development called Perla at the Enclave, close to the FSU campus. Law enforcement officers surrounded the building early in the morning, blocking exits before entering and ordering workers to present documentation. Witnesses reported that some workers attempted to flee but were apprehended and handcuffed.
Those detained were from several countries, including Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Colombia, Honduras, and Venezuela. ICE officials stated that some of those arrested had previously been deported, while others had criminal records. At least one individual was taken into state custody for resisting arrest and faces multiple charges of assault on law enforcement officers.
Agencies Involved
The operation was a coordinated effort involving ICE Homeland Security Investigations, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations, the Florida Highway Patrol, FBI, DEA, ATF, U.S. Marshals Service, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and IRS Criminal Investigations. The Florida Highway Patrol’s recent partnership with federal authorities allowed state officers to participate directly in immigration enforcement.
Official Statements and Community Response
ICE officials emphasized that the raid was part of ongoing efforts to eliminate illegal employment, hold employers accountable, and protect lawful workforce opportunities. “HSI Tallahassee, working alongside our state, local, and federal partners, will continue protecting public safety by enforcing the immigration laws of our nation,” said Nicholas Ingegno, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of ICE HSI Tallahassee.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis praised the operation, highlighting the impact of state law enforcement’s involvement in immigration enforcement efforts. However, the raid has sparked debate within the community. Some, like local worker Larisa Cladakis, voiced concern about the treatment of those arrested, noting, “Whether they are documented or not, they are human. And the fact is that they are literally working. They are building the houses that people are living in”.
Next Steps
Those arrested were transported by bus to local holding facilities, including the Leon County Jail, for processing and potential deportation proceedings. ICE has encouraged the public to report suspected immigration violations via its tip line.
The raid underscores the heightened focus on immigration enforcement in Florida, following recent legislative changes and federal-state cooperation aimed at curbing illegal immigration. The operation remains under investigation, with further details expected as cases proceed through the legal system.