Migrant Operations in Minneapolis Reported to Be Ending

Border Patrol Agent Tom Homan discussed the status of ICE’s migration efforts in Minneapolis during an interview with CNN’s Sarah Sydner on Friday. He stated that the surge is “over,” and the agency’s local workforce is expected to decrease to around 150 employees in about a week.

In the interview, Sydner inquired about the current shortage of immigration officers in the city, asking, “How many officers have left? How many are still there? How long will they stay?”

Local Officials Skeptical of Changes

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey expressed skepticism about ICE’s potential withdrawal, commenting, “I’ll believe it when I see it.”

Homan indicated that while he couldn’t confirm the exact number of remaining employees, he had plans for future immigration operations. He mentioned, “My intention is to return to our regular footprint of 150 staff but with a few conditions.” He elaborated that there would be a small security team to support ICE agents if needed, which he would withdraw if local law enforcement cooperates as promised.

Despite the plans to reduce staff, Homan noted that investigations into fraud allegations in the area would continue until they are resolved. “In terms of the immigration surge, it’s done,” he asserted, projecting a return to normalcy imminently.

A Mixed Reaction to Operations

At the start of the interview, Homan was asked about his claim that the operations in Minneapolis were a “huge success,” especially given some residents’ opposition. He replied, “Well, I didn’t expect political leaders to agree. But the reality is, the streets of Minneapolis are safer now because law enforcement is collaborating more closely with us.” He added that, overall, this approach has benefited both the community and the agents involved.

Homan also remarked on the good relationship with state authorities, although he acknowledged some disagreements with Mayor Frey. He noted that the Minneapolis Police Department took action to dismantle illegal roadblocks after discussions with the mayor. “Every law enforcement agency I’ve interacted with has committed to addressing public safety issues,” he stated.

He emphasized that ICE operations sometimes face disruptions from outside agitators, but expressed confidence in local authorities’ willingness to manage potential safety issues.

In a recent press conference, Homan asserted that the operation had significantly mitigated public safety risks through “unprecedented cooperation” between local law enforcement and state officials. He concluded that Minnesota is no longer a refuge for criminals, which he suggests is a direct outcome of their enforcement efforts.