The Division of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (DJJDP), which runs 12 detention centers and five youth development centers, says it is already using the report’s data to guide improvements.

Rollins said auditing from state-supplied data has resulted in removal of about 700,000 people; 5,000 dead people were found to be getting benefits; and one individual was a recipient in six states.

Communities across Rutherford County and the broader western North Carolina region — including Charlotte — are grappling with heightened anxiety following a wave of recent federal immigration operations.

“Thanksgiving gives us a moment to pause and reflect on all that we’re grateful for,” Stein said, thanking farmers, first responders, educators and residents who help their neighbors in need.

“It takes a special person to work in law enforcement,” Stein said. “I thank each of you for your commitment to protecting the public and will continue to advocate for the pay and respect law enforcement officers deserve.”