ICE Arrests 117 in East Tennessee: What to Do If Detained
In just one week, ICE swept through East Tennessee and arrested 117 people — tourists and residents alike were reminded that immigration enforcement can happen anywhere, at any time. The operation targeted Sevier County, home to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, two of the most visited areas in the state. If you live in the region — or anywhere in the US — knowing your rights before an encounter with ICE could make all the difference.
117 People Arrested in One Week in East Tennessee
From May 24 to May 31, 2026, ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) and local law enforcement arrested 117 people during a targeted operation in Sevier County and surrounding areas of East Tennessee. The operation was run by ICE New Orleans in partnership with federal, state, and local agencies — including the Sevierville Police Department, which participates in the 287(g) program (a federal program that allows local police to perform some immigration enforcement duties).
Among those arrested were people with prior convictions for theft, domestic assault, driving while intoxicated (DWI), and attempted aggravated sexual battery. ICE officials said the operation focused on people who pose the greatest risk to public safety. Some of those arrested may also face federal criminal charges for illegal reentry — that is, returning to the United States after being previously removed.
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ICE stated that people who already have a final order of removal (a judge's official decision ordering deportation) and who re-entered the U.S. can be removed immediately. People without a final order of removal will stay in ICE custody while their cases go through immigration court. ICE says all people in its custody receive full due process — meaning the right to a hearing before an immigration judge.
What to Do If You or Someone You Know Is Detained
- Contact an immigration lawyer immediately. People in removal proceedings (the legal process that can lead to deportation) have the right to hire an attorney. A lawyer can review whether a final order of removal exists and whether any legal options remain — such as filing a motion to reopen a case. The deadline to file a motion to reopen is 90 days from the date of the original removal order.
- Ask about a bond hearing. Many people held by ICE can request an immigration bond hearing — a court appearance where a judge decides whether you can be released while your case continues. Ask a lawyer whether you qualify.
- Do not sign any documents without legal advice. Signing certain forms can waive (give up) your right to a hearing. Lawyers strongly advise against signing anything before speaking with an attorney.
- Know the appeal deadline. If an immigration judge issues a removal order, you have 30 days to appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). Missing this deadline can end your legal options.
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Anyone detained in an operation like this should immediately invoke their right to remain silent and ask for an attorney — do not answer questions about your immigration history without counsel present. If a final order of removal is on file, options still exist: a motion to reopen must be filed within 90 days, and in urgent cases, an I-246 Stay of Deportation (which costs $155 in 2026) can be requested to pause removal while legal remedies are pursued. Every situation is different, so consult a licensed immigration attorney before taking any action.