Congressman Andy Ogles Confirms Federal Probe Into Nashville Mayor’s Office

Key Takeaways

• Congressman Andy Ogles announced a federal probe into Nashville mayor’s office over immigration enforcement issues.
• A joint ICE-THP operation arrested 196 people in Nashville; 95 had prior criminal records.
• Executive Order 30 requires city employees to report federal immigration contacts to the mayor’s office within 24 hours.

On May 27, 2025, Congressman Andy Ogles (R-TN) confirmed that the United States 🇺🇸 House Judiciary Committee and House Homeland Security Committee have launched a federal investigation into the office of Nashville mayor Freddie O’Connell. The investigation centers on allegations that the mayor’s office has “aided and abetted” illegal immigration, interfered with federal immigration enforcement, and potentially misused federal funds. This development follows a high-profile immigration enforcement operation in Nashville earlier in May, which has sparked intense debate and concern among city officials, law enforcement, immigrant communities, and advocacy groups.

What Triggered the Federal Investigation?

The investigation was prompted by a joint operation between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) in early May 2025. This operation led to the arrest of 196 individuals in Nashville, with 95 of those arrested having prior criminal records, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The operation involved about 468 traffic stops in predominantly Latino neighborhoods in South Nashville between May 3 and May 8, 2025. By May 8, ICE had detained 94 individuals.

Following these events, Congressman Andy Ogles held a press conference at the Tennessee State Capitol, titled “Stop the Invasion: Defend Tennessee.” He called for full transparency from the mayor’s office and expressed strong support for ICE and federal law enforcement. Ogles stated, “If you’re helping violent gangs destroy Tennessee by obstructing ICE—you belong behind bars.” He made it clear that he would “not back down” and would continue to stand with law enforcement.

Focus of the Investigation: Executive Order 30

At the heart of the investigation is Executive Order 30, a local policy originally issued under a previous administration but recently amended by Mayor O’Connell. The amendment now requires all Nashville city employees and first responders to report any communication with federal immigration authorities directly to the mayor’s office within 24 hours. Previously, the reporting window was three days.

The House Judiciary and Homeland Security Committees have formally requested all documents and communications related to:

• The amendment and implementation of Executive Order 30
• Internal discussions or documents about ICE enforcement in Nashville/Davidson County
• Correspondence between Metro employees, affiliated non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and federal authorities regarding the arrest or detention of criminal illegal aliens

These committees will review the materials to determine if there was interference with federal immigration enforcement or misuse of federal funds. If necessary, they may hold hearings, subpoena witnesses, and issue further investigative demands.

Key Stakeholders and Their Positions

Congressman Andy Ogles

Andy Ogles has taken a leading role in pushing for the federal investigation. He accuses the Nashville mayor’s office of obstructing ICE and aiding illegal immigration. Ogles argues that local officials should not interfere with federal law enforcement and has called for accountability if any wrongdoing is found.

Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell

Mayor O’Connell has criticized the ICE/THP operation, emphasizing that the Metro Nashville Police Department was not involved. He described the operation as causing “deep community harm” and has focused on building trust with Nashville’s immigrant communities. As of May 27, 2025, O’Connell has not publicly responded to the announcement of the federal investigation.

Department of Homeland Security and ICE

DHS has defended the ICE/THP operation, stating that those arrested included individuals with serious criminal backgrounds and gang affiliations. ICE maintains that its operations are focused on public safety and enforcing federal immigration laws.

Tennessee Republicans

Other Tennessee Republicans, including Sen. Marsha Blackburn and state Rep. Johnny Garrett, have publicly criticized Mayor O’Connell’s stance. They accuse him of undermining public safety by not cooperating fully with federal immigration authorities.

Community Organizations and Civil Rights Groups

Community organizations have expressed concerns about racial profiling and the impact of the operation on immigrant families. Civil rights advocates warn of possible due process and civil liberties violations during the ICE/THP operation. Many groups are calling for more transparency and protection for vulnerable communities.

The Belonging Fund: Community Response to Enforcement Actions

In response to the ICE/THP operation, Mayor O’Connell announced the creation of a “Belonging Fund” to support families affected by the arrests. As of May 16, 2025, the fund had raised $240,000. Metro Nashville has not committed public funds to this initiative; the money comes from private donations. The fund aims to provide emergency assistance to families facing separation or hardship due to immigration enforcement actions.

Policy Implications and Legal Risks

Federal-State Tensions

This investigation highlights ongoing tensions between federal immigration authorities and local governments, especially in cities with Democratic leadership that have adopted policies seen as limiting cooperation with ICE. Nashville’s approach is similar to so-called “sanctuary” policies found in other cities, where local officials try to balance federal law with community trust and safety.

Potential Legal Consequences

If the investigation finds that Mayor O’Connell’s office obstructed federal law enforcement or misused federal funds, Nashville could face serious consequences. These might include:

• Loss of federal funding for city programs
• Legal action against city officials
• Administrative penalties or policy changes required by federal authorities

Legal experts note that while local directives requiring reporting of federal communications are not unusual in sanctuary jurisdictions, direct interference with federal enforcement or misuse of federal funds could trigger serious federal penalties.

Impact on Immigrant Communities

The ICE/THP operation and the political fallout have increased fear and uncertainty among Nashville’s immigrant communities. Many families worry about being separated or losing access to essential services. Community organizations have stepped up emergency assistance efforts, but the long-term effects remain unclear.

Step-by-Step: How the Investigation Will Proceed

1. Formal Request: Congressman Ogles and the two federal committees have formally requested all relevant documents and communications from the mayor’s office.
2. Committee Review: The House Judiciary and Homeland Security Committees will review the materials to determine if there was interference with federal immigration enforcement or misuse of federal funds.
3. Potential Hearings: If warranted, the committees may hold hearings, subpoena witnesses, and issue further investigative demands.
4. Findings and Recommendations: The committees will issue findings, which could lead to referrals for criminal prosecution, administrative penalties, or policy recommendations.

This process is still in its early stages, and the timeline for findings or potential hearings has not been announced.

Background: Nashville’s Immigration Policy and Federal-State Clashes

Nashville has a history of adopting policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Executive Order 30, which is now under scrutiny, was originally issued under a prior administration and later amended by Mayor O’Connell to require faster reporting of federal contacts.

Conflicts between local governments and federal immigration authorities are not new. During President Trump’s administration, strict immigration enforcement policies led to repeated clashes with cities that adopted sanctuary policies. These tensions have continued under President Biden, with local officials often caught between federal demands and the needs of their communities.

Other Democratic mayors have faced similar investigations or legal challenges for policies seen as interfering with ICE operations. Recent incidents in Wisconsin and New Jersey show that this is a national issue, not just a local one.

Multiple Perspectives: Stakeholder Concerns

What Does This Mean for Nashville and Other Cities?

For Immigrants and Their Families

• Increased Fear and Uncertainty: Many immigrant families in Nashville are now more fearful of law enforcement and city officials. They worry about being targeted or separated from loved ones.
• Access to Services: Some immigrants may avoid seeking help from city agencies, even for basic needs, out of fear that their information could be shared with federal authorities.
• Community Support: Efforts like the Belonging Fund provide some relief, but many families remain anxious about their future.

For City Officials and Employees

• Reporting Requirements: City employees and first responders must now report any communication with federal immigration authorities to the mayor’s office within 24 hours. This change increases pressure on city workers and may affect how they interact with federal agencies.
• Legal Risks: If the investigation finds wrongdoing, city officials could face legal or administrative consequences.

For Law Enforcement

• Cooperation with Federal Agencies: The investigation could change how local police and other city agencies work with ICE and other federal authorities. Some officers may feel caught between city policies and federal demands.

For Other Cities

• National Precedent: The outcome of this investigation could influence how other cities handle cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Cities with similar policies may face increased scrutiny or pressure to change their practices.

Expert Analysis: What Are the Broader Implications?

Legal experts point out that local policies requiring city employees to report contact with federal immigration authorities are not unusual in sanctuary cities. However, if a city is found to have directly interfered with federal enforcement or misused federal funds, it could face serious penalties.

Immigration policy analysts warn that investigations like this can make local governments less willing to provide services to immigrant communities. This can increase vulnerability and distrust, making it harder for immigrants to access help when they need it.

Civil rights groups have raised concerns about racial profiling and due process violations during the ICE/THP operation. They argue that aggressive enforcement actions can harm entire communities, not just those targeted for arrest.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, these kinds of federal investigations can have a chilling effect on local governments’ willingness to support immigrant communities, especially when there is a risk of losing federal funding or facing legal action.

What Happens Next?

The federal investigation into the Nashville mayor’s office is still in its early stages. The House Judiciary and Homeland Security Committees are reviewing documents and may hold hearings or issue subpoenas if needed. The timeline for findings or further action has not been announced.

Depending on the outcome, Nashville could face pressure to revise or rescind Executive Order 30 or other local policies related to immigration enforcement. Ongoing protests and advocacy from both sides are likely as the investigation continues.

Where to Find More Information

• For updates on the investigation, you can visit the House Judiciary Committee’s official website.
• For information on the Belonging Fund, contact the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee.
• For official statements, check with Congressman Andy Ogles’ office or the Nashville mayor’s office.
• Local news coverage is available through NewsChannel 5 (WTVF).

Practical Takeaways

• Immigrants in Nashville should stay informed about changes to local policies and seek legal advice if they are concerned about their status or rights.
• City employees and first responders must follow the new reporting requirements under Executive Order 30 and be aware of the ongoing investigation.
• Community organizations should continue to support affected families and advocate for transparency and fairness in enforcement actions.
• Residents and stakeholders can follow official sources for updates and participate in public discussions about the future of immigration policy in Nashville.

This investigation is a reminder of the complex relationship between local and federal authorities on immigration issues. The outcome will likely have lasting effects on Nashville and could set a precedent for other cities across the United States 🇺🇸. As the process unfolds, all eyes will be on how city leaders, federal officials, and community members respond to the challenges ahead.

Learn Today

Executive Order 30 → A local policy requiring Nashville city employees to report contacts with federal immigration authorities within 24 hours.
ICE → U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a federal agency enforcing immigration laws and conducting operations like arrests.
Department of Homeland Security → Federal department responsible for public security, including immigration enforcement and coordination with local agencies.
Sanctuary policies → Local rules limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement to protect immigrant communities.
Subpoena → A legal order requiring someone to provide documents or testify in an investigation or court.

This Article in a Nutshell

A federal investigation targets Nashville’s mayor over alleged interference with immigration enforcement following ICE arrests. Executive Order 30’s amended reporting demands and community reactions highlight tensions between local and federal authorities on immigration policy enforcement.
— By VisaVerge.com