Tensions Flare at Charlotte Bakery with Former U.S. Border Patrol Commander

In Charlotte, North Carolina, bakery owner Manolo Bentancur encountered former U.S. Border Patrol commander Greg Bovino at his east Charlotte bakery. Bentancur described his interaction with Bovino, emphasizing concerns about the presence of ICE and national issues. Bentancur had seen Bovino and a cameraman in the parking lot upon picking up his wife from work.

Last November, Bovino led Operation Charlotte’s Web, an immigration enforcement operation that resulted in over 1,300 arrests, with significant activity originating from Bentancur’s bakery parking lot.

Bentancur recounted Bovino recognizing him as the owner who protected undocumented immigrants by closing his business. Queen City News reached out to Bovino for clarification. In a statement, Bovino denied entering the bakery, explaining he filmed businesses from Operation Charlotte’s Web and his videographer’s attempt to make a purchase was declined.

Bentancur alleged Bovino questioned his preference for undocumented immigrants over American citizens. Bentancur stated his community and businesses in east Charlotte feel targeted, with increased negative reviews and recent vandalism incidents involving eggs.

Bovino announced plans to release the event’s video online. Action NC, an advocacy group, condemned Bovino’s actions as intimidation, commending Bentancur’s immediate rejection of Bovino’s presence.

Action NC’s Immigrant Justice Director, Héctor Vaca, supported Bentancur, urging Charlotte locals to back his community-centered business. The group hailed Bentancur’s leadership qualities, encouraging support for his community-empowering actions.