Operation Staycation Nets 21 Illegal Alien Arrests in Bay County and Leon County

BAY COUNTY, FL - On May 16, 2025, Sheriff Tommy Ford today announced the results of Operation Staycation, a joint operation between The Bay County Sheriff's Office, Homeland Security Investigations Panama City, Enforcement and Removal Operations Miami-Tallahassee Field Office, the U. S. Department of Justice, the Panama City Beach Police Department, the Florida Highway Patrol, the Panama City Police Department, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. 

During Operation Staycation, a total of 21 illegal aliens were arrested, 18 in Bay County, and three in Leon County, Florida. Those arrested were from India, Venezuela, Nicaragua, Mexico, Guatemala, and Jamaica. Most overstayed temporary visas for tourism and recreation. 

The operation mainly targeted those who overstayed a visa. Four illegal aliens arrested entered the United States without inspection and one has been charged with felony illegal reentry after being previously removed. Sixteen of the illegal aliens arrested entered the county legally under a work, travel, or other visa program with a date assigned to leave the country. However, they remained after the expiration date, violating the terms of their visa. Overstaying a visa is an abuse of the immigration system and a violation of federal law. 

Since January 1, 2025, 178 illegal aliens have been arrested by Bay County law enforcement and ICE detainers placed on them. 

Sheriff Tommy Ford would like to thank the agencies who participated in Operation Staycation for their efforts to keep Bay County safe.