The Trump administration is shifting its focus toward addressing illegal immigration in Minneapolis, following increased scrutiny of federal agents and the resulting protests, according to various sources.
Recent incidents, particularly the shootings of Renee Good and Alex Preti, have turned Minneapolis into a focal point of tension between federal immigration enforcement and activists. Local officials have openly criticized the administration’s actions, with Mayor Jacob Frey advocating for the complete removal of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from the area after Good’s death.
In light of these developments, President Trump is reportedly altering his approach by sending border chief Tom Homan to oversee the situation.
White House representatives seemed to downplay suggestions of any discord between Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Homan, asserting that both are united in implementing the president’s directives.
Homan has indicated a reduction in the federal presence in Minnesota, noting that there has been substantial cooperation from local law enforcement. White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt stated that numerous counties in Minnesota have committed to collaborating with ICE to transfer criminal aliens upon their release, which aligns with conditions set by President Trump for implementing reductions in enforcement.
Notably, Homan announced that there would be immediate cuts to 700 federal positions starting Wednesday, although around 2,000 officers will still remain. He mentioned that the aim is to further reduce enforcement presence, contingent on the cessation of illegal activities against ICE.
The changes implemented by Homan also include new operational strategies for Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Sources report that there’s a greater emphasis on targeted enforcement, moving away from broader patrols conducted previously.
Under Homan’s leadership, CBP officers are advised to refrain from engaging with suspected illegal immigrants unless they are deemed a target. Instead, they’re expected to work closely with ICE for more specific arrests. Officials have indicated that Homan has cautioned that there will be repercussions for any officers who stray from the outlined operational protocols.
A White House official confirmed that while personnel in Minnesota will perform targeted arrests, they will also enforce immigration laws if they encounter other illegal immigrants during operations.
There are reportedly thousands of targets in Minnesota identified through public records utilizing a Department of Homeland Security database, which includes information on criminal records and immigration status.
Interestingly, under the previous administration, anyone entering the country illegally encountered by CBP would have their fingerprints taken, which are used to help identify potential targets. If a local police officer arrests an illegal immigrant, DHS receives updates regarding their fingerprints and the reason behind the arrest.
DHS has not yet responded to requests for comments on this situation.
