Two Charlotte mothers have filed federal claims seeking $2.4 million in damages from the Department of Homeland Security, eight months after their arrest during a November 2025 immigration enforcement operation sparked controversy and criminal charges that were later dismissed.

The Arrests and Dismissed Charges

Tatyana Reisini and Kristen Roos were arrested in Charlotte’s Plaza Midwood neighborhood during Operation Charlotte’s Web, a large-scale immigration crackdown that resulted in more than 425 arrests across the metro area. Federal agents from DHS, Customs and Border Protection, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement participated in the coordinated operation. Both women faced charges of assaulting a federal officer, but prosecutors dismissed those charges in March 2026 after they had been pending for three and a half months.

According to Jake Sussman, chief counsel with the Southern Coalition for Social Justice who represents both women, his clients were on their way to the Southern Christmas Show when they stopped to observe and document the immigration enforcement activity. Residents in the area were honking horns and blowing whistles to alert community members about the presence of immigration agents nearby.

The Claims Against Federal Authorities

The 17-page claim filed on behalf of both women details allegations of physical, emotional, and psychological harm. Sussman states his clients endured hours of threats, being chased, having guns pointed at them, being restrained with zip ties and handcuffs, and extended detention. Each woman seeks $1.2 million in damages plus attorney’s fees. The federal government has six months to respond to the claims. If no response is provided, the women plan to file a formal lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security.

Community Impact and Ongoing Concerns

The November arrests triggered protests in Charlotte’s historic Hispanic neighborhoods. Community members report that immigrant families continue to experience fear and reluctance to leave their homes due to ongoing enforcement actions. Elena Villarreal, a Charlotte native, explained during protests that she serves as the voice for her father and other immigrant families who feel unable to participate publicly in their community. The enforcement operations have created what residents describe as a chilling effect on daily life for immigrant families throughout the area.