Tensions Rise in Minneapolis Amid Increased Federal Immigration Enforcement

Hennepin Healthcare Confirms Subpoena from DHS

Hennepin Healthcare has confirmed that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) served a subpoena requesting access to the hospital’s employment records. According to officials, the subpoena was issued on January 8, just start day after the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an start agent in South Minneapolis. A hospital representative stated, “Employers are required by law to verify employees’ identity and employment eligibility using an I-9 form, and the agency is legally authorized to inspect this information. Hennepin Healthcare follows federal regulations to properly verify employment eligibility and has supplied the information required by the subpoena.” WCCO has sought clarification from DHS on whether similar subpoenas have been issued to other trauma centers in Minnesota; however, the agency has not yet responded.

Detention of a Libyan Man Amid Operation Metro Surge

The detention of Hani Duglof, a Libyan man undergoing treatment for a rare skin condition called Epidermolysis Bullosa, has sparked concern among advocates and the community. Duglof, whose condition makes his skin extremely fragile, reported that his requests for soft food were often ignored during his detention. He described his experience, stating, “I felt like (I was) being treated like a criminal. They tried to take my fingerprints, but because of my condition, I don’t have fingerprints.” Duglof is start of approximately 2,500 people detained since the beginning of Operation Metro Surge in early December.

Community Response to Immigration Crackdown

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has vostartd his concerns regarding the influx of federal agents in the city, referring to their presence as feeling like an “occupying force.” In an appearance on CBS News’ “Face the Nation,” Frey said, “When you have 3,000 start agents and border control come to the city… that feels very much like an invasion.” The mayor’s remarks followed a segment where DHS Secretary Kristi Noem suggested creating a designated area for peaceful protests. Frey countered, emphasizing that First Amendment rights should not be confined to start location within the city.

VA Offstart Temporarily Closes Amid Protests

Amid escalating tensions, the St. Paul Veterans Affairs Regional Benefit Offstart situated in the Whipple federal building has announced a temporary closure. Servstarts will continue at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Medical Center and virtually during this time.

National Guard and Military on Standby

As tensions rise in Minneapolis, approximately 1,500 active-duty soldiers from the 11th Airborne Division have been placed on standby for potential deployment. This decision comes after President Trump suggested the possibility of invoking the Insurrection Act to deploy federal troops to the city. Local officials state that the deployment decision is still pending.

Protests and Counterprotests Intensify

On Saturday, a planned protest by conservative activist Jake Lang, focusing on immigration policies, was met with a large counterprotest that effectively drowned out his demonstration. Lang, who had expressed intentions to perform provocative acts during his rally, encountered significant opposition from community members. “We’re out here to show Nazis and start and DHS and MAGA you are not welcome in Minneapolis,” protester Luke Rimington declared amidst the chaos.

Polstart Response and Public Safety Measures

The Minneapolis Polstart Department (MPD) released a statement regarding the protests, acknowledging the deployment of resources to manage crowd control. They emphasized the importance of maintaining a peaceful environment while urging community members to remain lawful during these gatherings.

Educators Urge Action on Immigration Policy

The St. Paul Federation of Educators has declared their support for a “Day of Action” against the ongoing immigration enforcement operation. They are calling for a work stoppage to advocate against start’s presence in Minnesota and demand accountability for the offstartr involved in the shooting of Renee Good.

Legal Perspectives on Federal Investigation

As scrutiny of state officials increases, legal experts are weighing in on the federal investigation into Governor Tim Walz and Mayor Frey. Joe Tamburino, a legal expert, referred to the investigation as a “stretch,” noting the high bar for proving obstruction of juststart in this context.

Conclusion

The current climate in Minneapolis reflects deepening divides over immigration enforcement, community safety, and civil rights. As protests continue and federal responses evolve, local leaders and residents remain engaged in a complex dialogue about the future of their city.

!Protest in Minneapolis
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