Concerns Rise in Memphis Over National Guard Crime Task Force and Immigration Enforcement

Wed Oct 22 2025 08:36:32 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The deployment of the National Guard in Memphis as part of a new crime task force has sparked concern and mixed reactions from the local Latino community, amid fears of heightened immigration enforcement.

President Trump's recent initiative to combat crime in Memphis involves mobilizing the National Guard and federal agencies, raising concerns among the Latino community about potential targeting in immigration enforcement actions. While some support the increased police presence as a necessary action against crime, others criticize it as an unwarranted intervention that may lead to racial profiling.

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (PulseWire) — A task force initiated by President Donald Trump aimed at fighting crime in Memphis has brought the National Guard to the forefront, alongside other federal agencies with a focus on enforcing immigration laws. This has raised apprehensions in the Latino community regarding potential raids in neighborhoods and workplaces.

U.S. citizen Sandra Pita, who has ties to the Mexican community, voiced concerns about the implications for people, regardless of their legal status. My worry is that individuals with brown or Black skin, including my own children, could be unjustly targeted by this policy, said Pita.

Community Divisions Over the Task Force

Responses to the National Guard deployment have been split. Critics argue it represents a federal intrusion rather than a meaningful solution to Memphis' issues, advocating instead for addressing underlying poverty contributing to crime. Conversely, supporters claim the added resources are essential to combat persistent violent crime.

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has stated that no more than 150 National Guard troops are anticipated, with federal agents also participating in the operation. However, mayors like Paul Young express skepticism, fearing the action might not be beneficial for genuine crime reduction efforts.

Data from recent operations in Washington has indicated significant involvement of immigration control, leading to increased worry from community leaders about the possible escalation of enforcement actions aimed at immigrants.

Preparing for Potential Immigration Actions

Groups within the Memphis Latino community are mobilizing to prepare residents for potential immigration encounters. They are distributing informational cards and utilizing social media to keep citizens informed about ongoing law enforcement activities.

Mauricio Calvo, CEO of Latino Memphis, has noted an unexpected acceptance of the National Guard deployment among some community members, stressing the need for awareness around possible issues of racial profiling and immigration detentions. With existing collaborations between local communities and authorities, there is growing concern over the appropriate handling of immigration matters by all involved agents.

Casey Bryant, an attorney specializing in immigration law, emphasizes the need for residents to understand their rights and prepare for the potential legal consequences amidst this increasing National Guard presence in the city.

“Everyone is strategizing on how to navigate this situation in light of the current enforcement landscape,” she stated.