Federal agents arrest 36 suspected illegal immigrants in Gulf Shores

Federal agents have arrested 36 suspected illegal immigrants who they say were working at the Gulf Shores High School construction site.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said agents assigned to the Gulf of America Homeland Security Task Force conducted an operation yesterday. The team included U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations, Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, FBI, the Drug Enforcement Agency, U.S. Customs and  Border Protection, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations and deputies from Baldwin County Sherriff’s Office.

Officials say the operation came after receiving multiple tips from members of the community about illegal immigrants being employed at the school construction site. 

The agents arrested the 36 suspects and processed them for removal proceedings. They say seven had a criminal record with  charges ranging from DUI with property damage to domestic violence and other outstanding warrants. 

During the operation, they say one worker assaulted a federal agent. That person will face federal criminal charges.

Gulf Shores is currently building a new high school facility.