Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tenn., has announced that two significant House committees will commence investigations into Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell. The Mayor stands accused of potentially ‘aiding and abetting’ undocumented immigrants and obstructing the operations of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, as it is commonly known.

Ogles announced during a press conference attended by an array of officials from federal, state, and local government. The conference took place at the Tennessee State Capitol, a location symbolic of the weight of these allegations.

Ogles is reported to have stated, “We’ve heard it: the individuals that the mayor is standing with are murderers, rapists, drug traffickers, sexual predators, child traffickers… the list goes on.” His comments were unequivocal in their support for ICE and the rule of law.

Ogles has expressed concern that Mayor O’Connell’s actions may not only obstruct law enforcement but might also involve the misuse of federal tax dollars. Both the Homeland Security Committee, on which Ogles serves, and the Judiciary Committee are set to investigate these claims, focusing on whether federal funds have been used inappropriately concerning undocumented immigration.

Ogles has requested access to documents and correspondence from O’Connell’s office related to Nashville’s dealings with federal immigration authorities. This includes a city directive requiring employees and first responders to report all communication with these authorities directly to the mayor.

Ogles’ announcement follows a recent operation by ICE in Nashville, which resulted in the arrest of 196 individuals believed to be in the country illegally. Of these, 95 had prior criminal convictions and pending charges, with 31 previously removed individuals having reentered the U.S. illegally. This, according to federal law, is a felony offense.

This development follows earlier reports that, despite these arrests, Mayor O’Connell remains supportive of policies criticized by some as being pro-illegal immigration. These allegations raise important questions about the balance between local governance and federal law enforcement.

In conclusion, we will be following this story closely and keeping you updated as more details roll in.