Minneapolis Mayor Stands Firm on Immigration Policy
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey reiterated his refusal to collaborate with federal immigration authorities, responding to recent events surrounding the murder of a local woman by an illegal immigrant allegedly under the influence. During an appearance on “Fox & Friends,” Frey defended his stance, emphasizing that his administration has consistently called for the removal of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from the city.
He stated, “We’re open to working with authorities when necessary, like in serious crime situations. But I believe that’s different from how we engage with our immigrant communities. They are valued members of our society.”
In a related discussion, host Griff Jenkins brought up the case of Victoria Eileen Harwell, who was killed by an illegal immigrant, Rangali Inga, from Ecuador in August 2024. Inga had initially been arrested but released without notifying ICE, which later placed a detainer on him when he was rearrested for vehicular homicide. However, he was released again shortly thereafter.
Authorities later revealed that Inga’s blood alcohol level was significantly over the legal limit when the incident occurred. This case has drawn criticism from various officials. For instance, Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security, pointed out that sanctuary policies may benefit those who have committed crimes, rather than the innocent victims.
The Department of Homeland Security mentioned that since the Trump administration took charge, both Governor Tim Walz and Mayor Frey have allowed around 470 criminal illegal immigrants to be released back into the community, including Harwell’s killer.
When Jenkins pressed Frey about the lack of cooperation with ICE to detain undocumented immigrants with criminal records, the mayor insisted that most of those arrested by ICE are not problematic for the city. He said, “If someone commits a serious offense, they should face the consequences. But in Minneapolis, I believe the majority of those under ICE detention don’t pose a risk.”
Frey noted that many immigrants have contributed positively to the community, often running businesses and having settled in the area long before he took office. He emphasized a need for empathy, suggesting that the ongoing turmoil caused by a heavy ICE presence disrupts the community rather than aids in fostering safety.
