Protests in Minneapolis Lead to Multiple Arrests
On Thursday night, at least 12 individuals protesting against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) were arrested outside the Hilton Hotel in Minneapolis, close to the University of Minnesota.
Reports indicate that a small group began gathering around 9 p.m. at the Graduate by Hilton Hotel, eventually growing to around 150-175 participants. These demonstrators were observed using whistles, banging pots and pans, and shaking metal barricades. Some even appeared to be playing trombones.
Approximately two hours later, law enforcement arrived to address the situation, declaring the gathering an unlawful assembly and instructing the crowd to disperse. Video footage captured a brief standoff between the police and some remaining protesters before the number of attendees dwindled.
According to a statement from the university, 12 arrests were made—11 for disorderly conduct and one for criminal damage to property. Officers had reportedly given five warnings for the group to disperse before those arrests took place. Authorities explained that they aimed to balance free speech with public safety, allowing protests to continue outside the hotel for more than 13 hours across four separate events before police intervened.
The university emphasized its support for peaceful protests and the safety of the campus community, stating, “As part of our mission, the university and UMPD support the right to engage in peaceful protest.”
It’s noteworthy that the Graduate by Hilton Minneapolis isn’t owned or managed by the university, though it’s located on university property. The campus police handle law enforcement in that area.
Since January, protests have occurred weekly, mainly on Thursdays, fueled by claims that ICE agents had previously stayed at the hotel.
This development follows border czar Tom Homan’s announcement of a significant reduction in Minnesota personnel, although 2,000 police officers will remain active in the area. Minneapolis has been a site of tension between federal immigration officials and protesters, particularly since the tragic shooting deaths of individuals Renee Good and Alex Preti.
