MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — A significant policy shift has emerged as police chiefs across Minnesota pledge to respond to 911 calls related to threats against federal immigration agents. Tom Homan, former Acting ICE Director, characterized this as a “massive victory.” This change follows rising tensions between federal immigration officers and protesters in the Twin Cities, marking a noteworthy turnaround in local law enforcement’s stance.
Homan emphasized, “The chiefs I talked to committed to responding to 911 calls when protestors turn violent.” He made it clear that local law enforcement would no longer adopt a passive approach. This verbal assurance, while not formalized, suggests a new willingness to protect federal agents amid mounting hostility.
The shift comes on the heels of unrest triggered by two fatal incidents involving ICE operations. The deaths of U.S. citizens Alex Pretti and Renee Good during these operations raised questions about the methods employed by federal agents. As reported, Pretti, an ICU nurse, was shot following a confrontation with federal officers. Internal ICE memos had previously advised agents to avoid direct conflict with “agitators” and focus on those with criminal backgrounds.
In response to public outcry, Homan convened urgent meetings with local police leadership. These discussions focused on addressing criticisms of federal enforcement tactics and the perception that local departments were not supporting federal operations. The commitment from police chiefs in the Twin Cities signifies a significant shift from previous unofficial stances that often left federal agents without backup during turbulent protests.
Minneapolis and St. Paul have seen ongoing demonstrations, with federal officials documenting numerous incidents where ICE arrests were obstructed and agents physically attacked. An internal DHS communication explicitly advised agents against escalating interactions with demonstrators, indicating a strategic shift aimed at maintaining safety while enforcing immigration laws.
Despite these tensions, Homan defended the ongoing mission of ICE, stating, “We are not surrendering our mission at all.” He reiterated that federal agents would continue to prioritize immigration enforcement despite local opposition. Homan asserted that cooperation from local jails—particularly in transferring criminal detainees—would be crucial for optimizing operations and minimizing exposure to public confrontations.
Operation Metro Surge, which includes a significant force of over 3,000 ICE personnel, continues to focus on immigrants with criminal records. The tragic events surrounding Pretti and Good have prompted federal agencies to reevaluate tactics and implement procedural changes designed to enhance safety during operations. These include clearer communication protocols and steps to verify identities before making arrests.
Yet, the issue of local cooperation remains contentious. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey expressed strong opposition to federal tactics, emphasizing a focus on community safety instead. “I want them preventing homicides,” he said, criticizing the idea of local officers participating in ICE operations aimed at capturing undocumented individuals. His comments reflect a broader concern regarding the balance between enforcing immigration laws and maintaining public trust in law enforcement.
Federal representatives maintain that collaboration with local authorities would facilitate a more orderly approach to immigration enforcement. They argue that without direct access to county facilities, ICE has been forced to conduct arrests in public areas, leading to increased visibility of operations and heightened tensions.
President Trump has backed Homan’s approach, describing him as “tough but fair.” In his address, Trump reaffirmed the necessity of federal immigration policies and warned against the hostile rhetoric that he believes has fueled violence against enforcement agents. “I said in March, if the rhetoric didn’t stop, there’s going to be bloodshed, and there has been,” he remarked, reflecting on the gravity of the situation.
In an area where the conflict between federal and local law is palpable, the renewed commitment from police chiefs to support federal agents could be pivotal. While the details are not formalized, the assurance of local law enforcement backing could help federal operations proceed without fear of isolation. Homan’s efforts may pave the way for improved coordination and a more effective approach to immigration enforcement in Minnesota.
As of now, ICE operations across Minnesota continue, prioritizing individuals with documented criminal histories. While the agency has not indicated plans to reduce its presence, Homan hinted that a drawdown could occur if local jails began allowing direct transfers of detainees. Until that cooperation is established, federal agents remain deployed, adhering to heightened oversight during operations, and confronting the consequences of past actions.
“We’re enforcing the law,” Homan stated firmly. “We are not the criminals.” His declaration reinforces the ongoing mission of immigration enforcement amid increasingly complex dynamics between federal authorities and local jurisdictions.
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