Gov Landry Partners with Trump to Launch Operation GEAUX

By: Ark-La-Tex Staff Writer

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has announced a new initiative, Operation GEAUX, in collaboration with the Trump administration, aimed at addressing illegal immigration within the state. The operation was unveiled on May 15, 2025, during a joint event with Deputy Director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Madison Sheahan, and ICE Principal Legal Advisor Charlie Wall.

Key Components of Operation GEAUX
Operation GEAUX is designed to empower state and local law enforcement agencies to enforce federal immigration laws more effectively. The initiative includes:

Enhanced Screenings: Implementing more rigorous checks to identify individuals unlawfully present in the country.
Aggressive Identification: Utilizing advanced technology and intelligence-sharing to locate and apprehend undocumented individuals involved in criminal activities.
Public Awareness Campaign: Educating the public about the operation and its objectives to garner community support and cooperation.

Governor Landry emphasized the operation's focus on individuals who are both unlawfully present and engaged in criminal conduct, stating, "If you’re here illegally and you engage in criminal activity, you are going to be deported or sent to jail."

Background and Rationale
The Governor's office contends that the previous administration's policies led to a significant increase in illegal immigration, estimating the undocumented population in Louisiana at approximately 97,000 as of 2021. The current numbers are believed to be higher. The administration attributes this rise to what it describes as the dismantling of immigration enforcement mechanisms.

In a statement, the Governor's office declared, "President Trump has made it clear that illegal immigration has no place in America, and we want to ensure this is a reality in Louisiana." The statement further criticized previous policies for allegedly "coddling those who break our laws" and pledged to restore a system where "law and order is the expectation, not the exception."

Community and Legal Reactions

The announcement of Operation GEAUX has elicited varied responses from different community groups and legal organizations. Supporters argue that the initiative is a necessary step to uphold the rule of law and ensure public safety. Critics, however, express concerns about potential civil rights violations and the impact on immigrant communities. They caution that aggressive enforcement could lead to racial profiling and undermine trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

As the operation progresses, it is expected to be closely monitored by both state and federal authorities, as well as civil rights organizations, to assess its effectiveness and adherence to legal standards.

For more information on Operation GEAUX and its developments, visit the official Louisiana Governor's Office website or follow updates from ICE.