Federal authorities arrested more than 80 illegal migrants — including multiple individuals with serious criminal records — during a coordinated worksite enforcement operation at Delta Downs Racetrack in Vinton, Louisiana, on June 17.
The raid marks one of the most significant enforcement actions since the former Biden administration lifted a moratorium on immigration arrests at farms, restaurants, and other sensitive workplaces.
The operation was led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and included assistance from Border Patrol, the FBI, the Louisiana State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Intelligence had indicated that several businesses operating out of the stables at the racetrack were employing unauthorized workers — prompting federal officials to take action.
ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Eric DeLaune confirmed that the sweep was part of a broader probe into labor exploitation and potential secondary crimes such as fraud and trafficking. working closely,” DeLaune said.
Among those arrested was Enrique Gonzalez Moreno, 36, a repeat immigration offender from Mexico. Moreno had previously entered the U.S. illegally four times, and had three convictions — two for driving under the influence and one for cocaine possession and illegal reentry. ICE officials say Moreno’s presence at the racetrack underscores the threat posed by repeat criminal violators operating under the radar.
Authorities are continuing to process those arrested, and further charges may follow depending on the results of ongoing investigations.
While most arrests were based on immigration violations, ICE noted that these types of operations often reveal more serious criminal activity, including identity fraud, benefit fraud, money laundering, and human trafficking.
“We’re able to bolster public safety in the local community by eliminating that criminal activity and removing any dangerous criminal aliens, transnational gang members, or other egregious immigration offenders,” DeLaune added.
The raid signals a renewed push for worksite enforcement, a strategy aimed at holding employers accountable for hiring undocumented labor. The ICE website emphasizes that such operations serve to deter illegal employment and ensure compliance with labor and immigration laws.
