ICE Detains 29 in Sullivan County, Tennessee

Authorities say the operation targeted individuals with criminal ties or outstanding warrants.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents were active in Sullivan County, Tennessee this week, detaining at least 29 individuals. According to the Sullivan County Sheriff's Office, four of those detained had previously been deported. The operation focused on apprehending those with criminal gang affiliations or outstanding arrest warrants.

Why it matters

The ICE operation in Sullivan County has sparked controversy, with a group of high school students staging a walkout protest. The incident highlights the ongoing debate around immigration enforcement and its impact on local communities.

The details

The Sullivan County Sheriff's Office said ICE agents visited areas of Bristol and Kingsport as part of the operation. The sheriff's office is part of a 287(g) program that allows certain officers to assist with limited immigration enforcement duties. During the operation, SCSO patrol cars were present to provide support as requested by ICE.

  • The ICE operation took place throughout this week in Sullivan County.
  • On Friday, a group of Dobyns-Bennett High School students left campus to protest the ICE activity.

The players

Sullivan County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that assisted ICE agents during the operation in Sullivan County.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal agency responsible for immigration enforcement that conducted the operation in Sullivan County.

Dobyns-Bennett High School

The high school where students staged a walkout protest in response to the ICE activity in the area.

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What they’re saying

“We're part of that 287(g) program for the task force model, as well as a warrant service model. Basically the warrant service allows certain personnel that are certified and trained by immigration enforcement to serve these administrative warrants on the illegal immigrants already in our custody.”

— Capt. Andy Seabolt, Spokesman, Sullivan County Sheriff's Office (Times News)

“School administrators were present at exit locations to communicate to students the consequences for any unauthorized exit of the building during the school day. Those that did elect to leave school will receive such consequences in accordance with school disciplinary procedures.”

— Andy True, Assistant Superintendent of Administration, Kingsport City Schools (Times News)

What’s next

The Sullivan County Sheriff's Office and Kingsport City Schools will continue to address the aftermath of the ICE operation and student protest, including potential disciplinary actions for the high school walkout.

The takeaway

The ICE operation in Sullivan County has sparked strong reactions, highlighting the ongoing tensions around immigration enforcement and its impact on local communities. The incident underscores the need for continued dialogue and policy discussions to address these complex issues.