Louisiana – Governor Jeff Landry, alongside officials from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), announced a new state-federal partnership designed to enhance immigration enforcement across Louisiana. Known as Operation GEAUX, the initiative marks a significant shift in how state and local law enforcement will engage with federal immigration authorities.
The program, unveiled with ICE Deputy Director Madison Sheahan and Principal Legal Advisor Charlie Wall, will allow Louisiana law enforcement agencies to take a more active role in enforcing federal immigration laws. Key components of the operation include enhanced screening, targeted identification of individuals in violation of immigration laws, and a large-scale public awareness campaign.
According to state officials, the initiative is intended to prioritize the removal or prosecution of individuals who are in the U.S. unlawfully and have engaged in criminal activity.
“If you’re here illegally and you engage in criminal activity, you are going to be deported or sent to jail,” said Governor Landry. He described the program as a “historic” effort that aligns with national priorities to bolster public safety and restore law and order.
An executive order has been issued to support the operation’s launch. The Governor’s Office cited recent federal immigration policy changes and rising numbers of undocumented individuals in Louisiana—estimated at around 97,000 in 2021—as key motivations for the new enforcement measures.
State officials emphasized that the initiative is not solely about enforcement, but also about public safety and restoring confidence in the rule of law.
Operation GEAUX is set to begin immediately, with coordination between ICE and multiple Louisiana law enforcement agencies expected to increase over the coming months.