Nashville criticized for sharing ICE interactions
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — The debate continues between Nashville mayor Freddie O'Connell and Tennessee lawmaker over ICE activity in the city.
The city of Nashville released a detailed spreadsheet of 35 interactions the Metro Nashville Police Department had with Homeland Security (HSI) investigators.On May 4, 2025, Metro police chief John Drake called HSI to ask about immigration operations occurring in Nashville, according to the report. At the time, MNPD did not know about immigration efforts in the city. The HSI said they would not be in Nashville, but in neighboring counties, and investigators were working with the Tennessee Highway Patrol.
In response to the release of detailed communications, US. Rep. Andy Ogles said by publicly posting the names of DSI and ICE agents handing intel to gangs like MS-13, who can now track down and potentially target these officers.
DHS: 196 arrested in Nashville ICE operations, 5 names released
Rep. Johnny Garrett wrote mayor Freddie O'connell is using official taxpayer resources to endanger DHS and HSI officials
The mayor has cVontinued to say Metro police had no part in the major ICE operation. Homeland Security and judiciary committees will look into the mayor, his conduct and whether or not the city used federal dollars criminally, related to immigration.
Congressman Andy Ogles confirms federal investigation into Nashville mayor's office over illegal immigration
Business owners gathered Thursday morning to support local businesses struggling in light of the recent ICE operations and educate them on how to be prepared.
The Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce chose to meet at Las Americas on Nolensville Pike once they learned the businesses was struggling.
The owner told News 2 in the last months or so, his business has lost out on more than half of its normal sales because workers and customers are afraid to come to the restaurant.
Nashville releases timeline of ICE activity across city
He said it's had an even bigger impact on business than the COVID-19 pandemic.
'The only thing I can do is work like always. You can do nothing about that. If you don't have nothing for your family. You're missing everything,' explained owner Gerardo Gomez.
The operation ended with 196 people arrested, according to a statement from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that also claimed the Nashville mayor 'stands by pro-illegal policies.'
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