DHS Secretary Mullin Announces 4,170 Arrests in Lone Star Mission

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin announced the results of the Lone Star Mission, a 10-day federal immigration enforcement operation conducted in Texas from October 19 to October 29. Mullin reported that federal authorities arrested 4,170 people, noting that approximately 60% of those detained had criminal histories, while the remaining 40% were collateral arrests.

During a press conference, Mullin criticized sanctuary jurisdictions and contrasted the immigration policies of President Donald Trump with those of former President Joe Biden. This federal operation is distinct from Operation Lone Star, the state-led initiative launched by Governor Greg Abbott in 2021.

The announcement coincides with campaign visits to Texas by President Trump and Vice President JD Vance to rally voters for the upcoming midterm elections. Meanwhile, federal immigration officers are facing scrutiny over three recent use-of-force incidents in Houston and Austin, including one instance where an officer shot and wounded a Venezuelan national.