Federal immigration authorities arrested 117 people during a weeklong enforcement operation in East Tennessee, including individuals with prior convictions for assault, drunk driving, theft, and attempted aggravated sexual battery.
A large-scale immigration enforcement operation conducted in East Tennessee led to 117 arrests over a seven-day period, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
The operation took place from May 24 through May 31 in Sevier County and surrounding communities, including areas near the Great Smoky Mountains, one of the nation’s most visited tourist destinations.
ICE New Orleans coordinated the effort alongside federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
Operation Focused on Public Safety Concerns
Officials said the arrests included both administrative immigration violations and individuals with criminal histories.
According to ICE, several of those arrested had prior convictions or arrests involving offenses such as domestic assault, theft, drug possession, driving under the influence, and sexual offenses.
Some individuals may also face federal charges for illegally reentering the United States after previous removals, authorities said.
“This enforcement operation demonstrates our commitment to protecting the safety of the community and its visitors,” said Brian Acuna, acting field office director for Enforcement and Removal Operations New Orleans.
Individuals Highlighted by ICE
Among those identified by ICE was Jose Omar Euceda-Moreno, 37, a Honduran national who authorities said had been arrested five times for driving under the influence and previously convicted of DUI, domestic assault, drug possession, and probation violations.
ICE also highlighted the case of Denis Ariel Cabrera Castillo, 18, of Honduras. Authorities said he had been arrested on charges including solicitation of a minor and later pleaded guilty to attempted aggravated sexual battery, receiving a six-year prison sentence.
Another individual identified by ICE was Katherine Michelle Ocampo Figueroa, 29, of Honduras, who officials said had previously been removed from the United States and had a criminal history that included an aggravated assault arrest and theft conviction.
Gerson Alberto Dempster, 54, also from Honduras, was identified as having prior arrests for felony cocaine possession, public intoxication, and driving without a license.
Local Authorities Participated
Sevierville Police Deputy Chief Sam Hinson said local law enforcement worked alongside federal partners during the operation.
“In partnership with ICE and other area law enforcement agencies, the Sevierville Police Department is working to create safer streets, protect families, and ensure Sevierville, Sevier County, and East Tennessee remain great places to live, work and enjoy,” Hinson said.
Immigration Proceedings Continue
ICE said individuals with final orders of removal may be deported immediately, while those without final removal orders will remain in custody pending immigration court proceedings.
Federal officials noted that all individuals in immigration custody are entitled to due process under U.S. law.
The agency routinely conducts enforcement operations nationwide targeting individuals who allegedly violate federal immigration laws.
Key Points
• ICE and partner agencies arrested 117 people during a weeklong operation in Sevier County and surrounding East Tennessee communities.
• Authorities said several of those arrested had prior criminal convictions involving DUI offenses, assault, theft, drug crimes, and sexual offenses.
• Some individuals could face additional federal charges for illegal reentry after previous deportations.