Minnesota Takes Legal Action to Halt ICE Invasion in Twin Cities
Minnesota and two cities are suing to stop a federal immigration operation, claiming it threatens public safety and violates rights
The lawsuit, 80 pages long, was filed in a Minnesota court. It targets the Department of Homeland Security and names DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. The lawsuit aims to block “Operation Metro Surge,” which has sent many armed agents into the communities. The plaintiffs say this overwhelms local law enforcement and resources.
Attorney General Keith Ellison held a press conference. He called the federal operation an invasion of the Twin Cities. He said it has caused chaos through warrantless arrests and excessive force. Locations like schools, churches, and hospitals have been affected.
Ellison mentioned that this surge has led to school closures, hurt businesses, and taken police away from regular safety work. He noted incidents where people were taken away by masked agents in unmarked vehicles, calling it an unlawful use of police resources.
The lawsuit also points to the tragic shooting of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent as a key event that increased fear among families. Good was a mother and wife and was shot during an operation on January 7. The FBI is handling the investigation, which Minnesota officials say lacks transparency.
The plaintiffs argue that the federal operation goes against the Tenth Amendment and federal laws. They believe the federal actions are retaliatory for Minnesota’s lawful efforts.
When a reporter described an incident with federal agents using pepper spray, Ellison said that press freedoms matter. He emphasized the importance of protecting journalists in this situation.
Separately, Illinois and Chicago are also suing the Department of Homeland Security, accusing it of a similar militarized approach to immigration enforcement.