A joint task force of federal agents conducted a large-scale immigration enforcement operation at the Gulf Shores High School construction site on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. Rabren Construction is the contractor. The raid, led by the Gulf of America Homeland Security Task Force, ended with the arrest of 36 individuals allegedly working illegally at the site.

According to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the operation was prompted by community tips and other investigative efforts. Several agencies responded to the scene, including the FBI, DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, and ATF. In addition, Officers from Orange Beach Police, Gulf Shores Police, Foley Police, and the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office assisted at the scene.

Agents say the scene quickly turned chaotic. Two vehicles fled the site, crashing through a fence and heading toward officers. The cars were pursued but eventually stopped for safety reasons. Several suspects also tried to flee on foot.

Of the 36 arrested, 20 had prior criminal records. Seven had illegally re-entered the U.S. after being deported. Four had final deportation orders. One was an unaccompanied minor who had aged out of legal protection. Domestic violence and DUI were among the prior charges.

A DEA supervisor was assaulted during the operation. Despite the tension, authorities said the raid was conducted thoroughly and safely, thanks to coordination among the multiple agencies involved.

Officials confirmed that some individuals arrested were working under subcontractors on the school project. They noted that general contractors on public projects are required by Alabama law to use E-Verify, a federal program that checks employment eligibility.

Investigators could not yet confirm whether stolen identities were used. They said the individuals had provided their true names. Nationalities included Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, and Ecuador, among others.

No signs of labor trafficking were found during the raid. Officials emphasized this was not a one-time event. Similar operations have taken place across Baldwin County since January 2025.

The Gulf of America Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) continues to focus on long-term investigations of criminal activity, including drug trafficking, illegal immigration, and employer violations. Authorities hinted that more enforcement actions are expected in the future.