A recent immigration enforcement operation in Kern County, California, provided a glimpse of what may become more common under anticipated changes to U.S. immigration policy. Border Patrol agents from the El Centro Sector carried out “Operation Return to Sender,” targeting criminal migrants in and around Bakersfield. The three-day initiative resulted in nearly 80 arrests, including several sex offenders and individuals with warrants for weapons and drug-related charges.
A Customs and Border Protection (CBP) source confirmed the operation focused on individuals involved in criminal activity and aimed to disrupt transnational criminal organizations. Chief Patrol Agent Gregory Bovino, who participated in arrests, emphasized the operation’s goal of safeguarding communities from dangerous individuals.
During the operation, Bovino shared updates on social media, showcasing key arrests. One included a migrant wanted for weapons charges in Tulare County. Another post detailed the capture of two child sex offenders on the first day of the initiative. Bovino praised his team’s efforts, noting their commitment to enforcing immigration laws and protecting the nation’s interior.
While the operation targeted specific individuals, some migrants apprehended were not on the original list, according to CBP. The source explained that future operations could see similar outcomes, where migrants in illegal status nearby may also be detained.
The enforcement effort sparked mixed reactions in the area. Protests in nearby Fresno saw hundreds waving Mexican flags, expressing opposition to the operation. Demonstrators argued that migrant labor is essential for agriculture, childcare, and other industries, with one stating, “These people built this country.”
Despite protests, local polling reflected strong support for enforcement. A Fox58 Bakersfield poll showed 93% of respondents favored deporting migrants with criminal records, and 65% were unconcerned about recent arrests.
CBP officials defended the operation, highlighting the historical precedent for inland enforcement in California’s farming regions. The El Centro Sector’s jurisdiction stretches from the U.S.-Mexico border to the Oregon state line, enabling agents to act wherever criminal threats arise.
