NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – A makeshift “voodoo doll” depicting a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent was found in Uptown New Orleans near Magazine Street, according to Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill, as federal immigration operations continue across the area.
Photos show a felt doll tied to a tree, covered in pins, wearing clothing labeled “ICE,” with a handwritten sign above it.
A handmade “voodoo doll” portraying an ICE agent was found in Uptown New Orleans as federal immigration enforcement continues across south Louisiana.(AG Murrill’s office)
The doll was discovered in a residential area in New Orleans, which has seen protests and heightened tension amid the ongoing federal crackdown known as Operation Catahoula Crunch.
Attorney General Liz Murrill responded publicly after the photo circulated online.
“You can tell the pro-illegal immigration radicals are losing the argument when they result to ICE voodoo dolls and harassing the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force in New Orleans,” Murrill said.
The discovery comes as federal immigration enforcement has escalated across south Louisiana in recent weeks, drawing protests, criticism from local leaders and concern from immigrant communities.
Federal authorities have said the operation targets “criminal illegal aliens,” though records reviewed by the Associated Press show criminal histories were documented for fewer than a third of those arrested in the early days of the sweep.
A man in the United States illegally is facing charges of assaulting law enforcement following his arrest in Tullos.
The increased enforcement has coincided with heightened federal monitoring of online activity and protests. Law enforcement records reviewed by the AP show state and federal agencies are tracking social media discussions and public sentiment related to the immigration crackdown, citing concerns about threats to agents.
Tensions have also risen following several high-profile enforcement actions, many caught on video and circulated online and on news outlets.
Federal authorities have cited recent threats as part of the broader security backdrop. Recently, agents arrested Micah Legnon, a former U.S. Marine and ex-New Iberia police officer, after investigators say he posted online threats referencing the 1993 Waco massacre and offered combat training to radical group members.
Legnon was taken into custody while traveling to New Orleans with tactical gear, according to court records, and is being held in the Iberia Parish Jail.
Protests have continued outside federal buildings and in neighborhoods across the New Orleans area, with demonstrators calling for an end to the crackdown and greater transparency.
Local and state officials remain divided over the scope and impact of the operation, which has no announced end date.
Authorities have not indicated whether the doll will be investigated as a threat or vandalism. No arrests have been announced in connection with the incident.
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