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ICE, Forest Service arrest 14 undocumented immigrants in northern Michigan during 'Operation Fresh Catch'

Federal immigration agents and U.S. Forest Service officers arrested 14 people Oct. 10 near Cadillac and Manistee.Routine salmon-season license checks and strict Michigan ID laws make public rivers a frequent spot for immigration arrests.Lawmakers and civil rights groups have criticized using forest officers for raids and questioned medical care at the Baldwin detention center. CADILLAC, Mich. (WBUP/WJMN) — Federal immigration agents and U.S. Forest Service officers arrested 14 undocumented immigrants in northern Lower Michigan following reports of fishing violations. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced the Oct. 10 arrests on Nov. 6. The sweep, called Operation Fresh Catch, took place around Cadillac and Manistee. ICE said it launched the operation after Forest Service officers reported more fishing violations by foreign nationals without proper ID. Officials did not say whether anyone arrested actually faces fishing charges. "Our coordinated efforts promote public safety and help ensure that those who violate immigration laws are held accountable," said Matthew Putra, ICE Detroit field office director. Why fishing checks lead to arrests Routine river patrols and state ID rules turn license checks into status checks Early October is peak salmon season on northern Michigan rivers, drawing heavy crowds alongside seasonal farm workers in the area