Photo credit: AP

Another strong proof that the Trump administration is serious in its crackdown on illegal immigrants is the stepped up work of immigration agents in going after known lairs of illegals.

Agents arrested 21 people suspected of living in the U.S. illegally in a predawn sweep targeting dozens of 7-11 stores across the country.

New York and Virginia franchises of the popular convenience store which opened in 2013 have been targets of investigations when it was discovered that several managers there used stolen identities to employ at least 100 people staying and possibly working in the country illegally.

The early morning raids were specifically aimed at management for their possible complicity in the illegal practice of hiring undocumented immigrants, and the possible use of fraudulent means in the process.

Immigration agents on Wednesday also opened employment audits and interviewed workers at nearly 100 7-Eleven locations, which could lead to criminal charges and fines’ over the possible dubious hiring process of the stores.

The crackdown on illegal immigrants suspected to be working in convenience stores is part of the series of determined efforts of the Trump administration to go after illegal immigrants. The moves of the new administration have already yielded a 40 % increase in deportation arrests.

Immigration advocates from liberals in New York to Los Angeles - states known to coddle illegals- condemned the latest raids saying such actions of the law enforcement are “only bringing fear into communities.” The advocates also bring up issues of family concerns of the workers arrested and are defending workers’ rights, even if their status is illegal.

7-Eleven washed its hands saying it is not responsible for the hiring decision of its franchise managers. The international chain of convenience stores boasts of having more than 60,000 stores worldwide.

The Trump administration remains steadfast in its goal of ridding the country of illegal immigrants and potential cause of harm to Americans, regardless of the criticisms by liberals and advocates. ICE Acting Director Tom Homan said in a statement: “Today’s actions send a strong message to U.S. businesses that hire and employ an illegal workforce. ICE will enforce the law, and if you are found to be breaking the law, you will be held accountable.”

Homan added that: “Businesses that hire illegal workers are a pull factor for illegal immigration and we are working hard to remove the magnet.”

The 7-Eleven operation is just part of the beginning as ICE top official Derek Benner warns the Wednesday enforcement is a “harbinger of what’s to come” for American employers.

Banner said there’s certainly going to be more and more large-scale compliance inspections, and that’s just for starters.

Source:

http://www.nydailynews.com/amp/news/national/immigration-officers-target-100-7-eleven-stores-nationwide-article-1.3749148