Charlotte, N.C. – Manolo Bentancur, owner of a well-known bakery in east Charlotte, discussed a tense interaction with Greg Bovino, a former commander of the U.S. Border Patrol, at his bakery on a recent Sunday. Bentancur recalled Bovino’s remarks during their encounter, saying, “He said, ‘Well, I can be wherever I want; it’s free.’ I told him, ‘This is private property; you are not allowed here.’ There is significant fear surrounding ICE and concerns about national issues.”
Bovino and a cameraman were seen in the bakery parking lot when Bentancur arrived to meet his wife from work. Last November, Bovino led Operation Charlotte’s Web, a large-scale federal immigration enforcement operation that resulted in over 1,300 arrests, many linked to Bentancur’s bakery lot activities.
Bentancur quoted Bovino saying, “Ah, you’re Manolo, the owner. You shut down your business in November to protect those here illegally.” Queen City News contacted Bovino who refuted Bentancur’s version of events in a statement. Bovino claimed he did not try to enter the bakery and was simply recording footage of businesses involved in the Operation Charlotte’s Web.
According to Bovino, his videographer wanted to buy something in the bakery, which Bentancur declined. Bentancur reiterated, “I told him if you’re thinking about entering the bakery, you won’t be allowed.” Bovino asked Bentancur why he would choose an illegal alien over an American citizen, to which Bentancur purportedly had no response.
Bentancur sees this incident as emblematic of ongoing challenges faced by businesses in east Charlotte. Incidents of vandalism, such as egging his business and negative reviews, reflect increasing animosity against his establishment.
Gregory Bovino plans to release the full video of their exchange online. Meanwhile, Action NC, a local nonprofit, criticized Bovino’s actions, labeling them as intimidation. They argued, “His behavior was intended to weaken a community, but he faced immediate resistance.”
Action NC’s Héctor Vaca commended Bentancur as a community leader who defends the marginalized. He stated, “We stand with Manolo, a model of generosity and empowerment. Charlotte should support his business, which supports its community.”
Action NC praised Bentancur as “kind, generous, and hardworking,” qualities they believe are vital in a strong leader. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. This content cannot be republished, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Leave a Reply