KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - During a weeklong ICE operation in partnership with ICE New Orleans, 117 people were arrested in Sevier County and surrounding areas from May 24 to May 30, according to the federal immigration enforcement agency.“In partnership with ICE and other area law enforcement agencies, the Sevierville Police Department is working to create safer streets, protect families, and ensure Sevierville, Sevier County and East Tennessee remain great places to live, work and enjoy,” said Sevierville Police Deputy Chief Sam Hinson. Some of the undocumented immigrants were arrested due to charges such as theft, domestic assault, driving while intoxicated and attempted aggravated sexual battery. They might face additional criminal charges for illegal reentry into the United States, according to a press release from ICE.This is not the first time officials have taken action against undocumented immigrants in East Tennessee, as Knox County reported the second-highest number of undocumented immigrants charged or convicted with a crime in 2025.Previous coverage: Tennessee immigration report shows Knox County near top for criminal chargesAmong those arrested include: Jose Omar Euceda-Moreno, 37, of Honduras, for driving under the influence, domestic assault, drug possession and probation violation.Denis Ariel Cabrera Castillo, 18, of Honduras, for solicitation of a minor/rape of a child, interference with an emergency call and attempted sexual battery.Katherine Michelle Ocampo Figueroa, 29, of Honduras, for an aggravated assault arrest charge and theft conviction. The press release additionally noted that undocumented immigrants who violate U.S. immigration law are “subject to arrest and detention, regardless of their criminal histories.”Several law enforcement agencies, like county sheriff’s offices and city police departments, partner with ICE through the 287(g) program. Those agreements can mean helping ICE with immigration enforcement or housing immigrants the agency detains— often on the local agency’s dime. Related Coverage: These TN agencies have opted into certain ICE programs“By focusing our enforcement efforts on individuals who pose the greatest risk, and with the support of our 287(g) partners, we help ensure Tennessee communities remain safe for residents and tourists," said Enforcement and Removal Operations New Orleans acting Field Office Director Brian Acuna.Copyright 2026 WVLT. All rights reserved.