Orlando, FL – Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons visited Orlando on Friday to highlight an aggressive crackdown on violent international gangs operating in Florida. Flanked by top law enforcement officials, Lyons spoke at Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) Troop D Headquarters, emphasizing the importance of federal, state, and local collaboration in targeting criminal organizations.
“We can’t do this alone,” Lyons said, praising the 287g agreements that enable Florida agencies to assist ICE in immigration enforcement.
A primary focus is the Tren de Aragua (TDA) gang from Venezuela, with ICE and its partners arresting 68 suspected members within 48 hours. FHP Executive Director Dave Kerner confirmed recent arrests of TDA, MS-13, and Brothers Circle gang members. Over 1,100 FHP troopers are now trained as immigration officers, strengthening Florida’s crackdown.
Col. Gary Howze II reported that 130+ suspected gang members from 14 countries have been arrested this year. A TDA member was recently apprehended in Orange County under the Alien Invasion Act, Title 50.
Orange County Sheriff John Mina vowed continued efforts: “These violent gangs terrorize our communities. We’re committed to working with ICE to get them out of Florida.”
Officials declined to take questions at the press conference.
