Minnesota judge limits ICE tactics against peaceful protesters

A US federal court has imposed strict limits on how the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency can interact with non-violent protesters in the state of Minnesota, amid ongoing clashes between ICE agents and protesters.

According to a ruling Friday by Minnesota District Judge Katherine Menendez, ICE agents cannot detain or arrest individuals “engaged in peaceful, non-obstructive protest activity” or use pepper spray, tear gas or similar non-lethal force against those protesters or bystanders.

Federal agents can only stop or check vehicles near protests if there is concrete suspicion that they are interfering with their operations; general checks are not permitted.

Menendez cited reports of aggressive behavior by ICE forces that may have violated constitutionally guaranteed rights.

The ruling comes amid ongoing protests in the Minneapolis area against ICE operations, which gained international attention following the shooting death of U.S. citizen Renee Good by an ICE officer last week.

The Department of Homeland Security has rejected allegations of misconduct by its agents, saying they acted lawfully, consistent with the Constitution.

In an article on X on Friday, it was stated that force was only used when necessary to protect oneself and the public.

The court order applies for the duration of the increased federal deployment in Minnesota.

Menendez previously rejected an emergency request to completely shut down ICE operations.

President Donald Trump recently threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act — a rare step that would allow the deployment of U.S. troops to enforce domestic law — but has yet to take that action.