Audit Controversy Surrounds Minnesota Toy Store
A toy store in St. Paul, Minnesota, known for its anti-ICE stance, claims it has recently become the target of what it describes as “random” audits from federal authorities.
The co-owner of Mischief Toy Store, Abigail Adelsheim-Marshall, has stated that the store faced a ‘retaliatory’ audit shortly after a report aired on ABC News, highlighting the store’s distribution of free 3D-printed whistles. These whistles are intended for protesters to alert their neighbors when ICE agents are near. During an interview, Adelsheim-Marshall expressed suspicion about the timing of this audit.
“I was on ABC National News discussing our actions,” she shared. “It feels off, especially since I’ve been involved with the whistle initiative since Thanksgiving.” While she acknowledges that I-9 audits are permissible, she questions the timing and intentions behind the recent inspection.
I-9 audits are meant to confirm employment eligibility and ensure adherence to employment laws, conducted by either ICE or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
In response to the claims, DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin firmly stated that any assertion suggesting the audit was in response to the interview is false. She emphasized that there is an ongoing investigation into potential fraudulent activities in Minneapolis amounting to at least $19 billion, stressing that the investigation is unrelated to the owner’s political opinions.
Adelsheim-Marshall noted that while their business is registered as ‘Mischief LLC,’ it’s more informally known as ‘Mischief Toy Store.’ She added that the situation seems strange, particularly as many immigrant-owned businesses in the state, especially in Minneapolis, seem to be facing similar scrutiny.
When asked if the federal agents provided any reason for the audit, she replied that no specific justification was given—characterizing it simply as a “random audit.” Despite the circumstances, Adelsheim-Marshall highlighted the support they’ve received from the St. Paul community following the audit.
Identifying herself as the “mischievous manager,” Adelsheim-Marshall expressed her desire for the Trump administration to halt what she perceives as acts of terrorism on the streets of Minnesota. “I’d be really pleased if they could stop that,” she commented, adding that they are committed to resisting what they consider fascist actions.
ICE has been active with significant immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota, prompting several businesses statewide to participate in an “economic blackout” in protest of the agency’s continuing efforts. Furthermore, a group of protesters recently held a “sit-in” at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport in response to deportation flights amid this crackdown.
