Immigrants in the U.S. illegally who fail to register with the federal government could face significant fines, potential imprisonment or both, according to a directive issued by the Department of Homeland Security on Tuesday.

Despite images of a nationwide sweep, there is little evidence so far that ICE is arresting, detaining or deporting many more people than usual.

One person was arrested as part of a Colony Ridge operation targeting "criminals and illegal immigrants," federal authorities announced less than 24 hours after Gov. Greg Abbott said state troopers and federal agents were descending on the neighborhood northeast of Houston.

The development outside of Houston has long drawn the ire of Texas Republicans who claim it’s a haven for undocumented people.