Federal immigration officers get in a car as they prepare to deploy tear gas at a protest Monday in Minneapolis.
John Locher/AP
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John Locher/AP
MINNEAPOLIS — A legal battle has erupted between state officials and the Trump administration over a controversial immigration operation in the Minneapolis region.
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, follows the recent shooting of 37-year-old Renee Macklin Good by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent.
State Attorney General Keith Ellison condemned the federal agents for their actions during the immigration crackdown, accusing them of arresting innocent bystanders, detaining U.S. citizens, and using chemical irritants against peaceful demonstrators exercising their First Amendment rights. The lawsuit demands that the Trump administration cease its aggressive immigration enforcement in the state.
The lawsuit alleges that armed Department of Homeland Security agents have conducted militarized raids in the Twin Cities, leading to unconstitutional arrests and racial profiling. In response, Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin criticized Ellison for prioritizing politics over public safety and denied the claims of racial profiling, citing the Fourth Amendment.
“President Trump’s administration is committed to upholding the law and protecting American citizens, regardless of political agendas,” McLaughlin stated. “We are confident that our actions are constitutional and look forward to proving this in court.”
With over 2,000 federal immigration agents in Minnesota and more expected to arrive, the situation has escalated. Reports of agents questioning individuals about their immigration status in public places, such as parking lots, have raised concerns among residents.
One such incident involved Joel Keleekai, a legal resident, who was approached by immigration agents while charging his car. The heightened presence of immigration enforcement has instilled fear in the community, with residents expressing solidarity and vigilance against ICE’s activities.
Amidst the chaos, undocumented immigrants and U.S. citizens alike have faced scrutiny and apprehension, leading to tense confrontations and calls for accountability.
One individual, identified as M.A., recounted his encounter with immigration agents, emphasizing his legal status and rights as a U.S. citizen. As the Trump administration intensifies its immigration enforcement in Minnesota, the community remains on edge, mobilizing against perceived injustices.
Despite assurances from DHS about following proper procedures, the aggressive tactics employed by immigration agents have sparked outrage and resistance from local residents.
As the situation unfolds, public officials, activists, and concerned citizens are closely monitoring developments and advocating for the protection of immigrant rights in Minneapolis.
Christian Molina, a U.S. citizen, shared his harrowing experience with immigration agents, highlighting the need for accountability and respect for individuals’ rights.
This evolving narrative underscores the complex dynamics of immigration enforcement and the community’s response to heightened federal actions.
