A federal judge has issued an order restricting how Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents can respond to peaceful protesters in Minneapolis ahead of planned demonstrations this weekend.
Protections for Peaceful Protesters
U.S. District Judge Katherine Menendez ruled that ICE agents may not arrest, pepper spray, or use other nonlethal crowd-control tools against individuals engaged in “peaceful and unobstructive” protest activity. The order also protects people who are monitoring or observing ICE operations from interference.
Ruling Ahead of Planned Demonstrations
The decision comes as Minneapolis prepares for large anti-ICE protests following the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE agent earlier this month. State and city officials have urged demonstrators to remain calm and orderly.
Minnesota’s National Guard has been placed on alert, and additional law enforcement officers have been deployed amid expectations of both anti-ICE protests and a counter march organized by a conservative influencer.
Limits on Stops and Detentions
Judge Menendez’s 83-page order also bars agents from stopping or detaining drivers and passengers without reasonable suspicion that they are actively obstructing federal operations. The ruling states that safely following immigration agents at an appropriate distance does not, on its own, justify a vehicle stop.
Federal Response and Political Fallout
The Department of Homeland Security said it is taking constitutional measures to protect officers and the public from violent activity. The White House criticized the ruling, calling it misleading and defending the actions of federal agents.
Meanwhile, the Justice Department announced an investigation into Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey over allegations they interfered with immigration enforcement. Both officials rejected the claims, accusing federal authorities of politicizing the justice system.
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