Dozens Arrested After Anti-ICE Protest Turns Chaotic Outside Minneapolis Federal Building
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — More than 40 anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) protesters were arrested Saturday after a demonstration outside the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building in Minneapolis escalated into chaos. The protest followed a memorial for Renee Good and Alex Pretti, two Minneapolis residents who were fatally shot by federal agents last month.
According to the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, at least 42 individuals were taken into custody after confrontations with law enforcement officers. Video footage captured by local media showed protesters shouting insults at state patrol officers, tearing down yellow police tape, and hurling lewd objects at law enforcement personnel. Some demonstrators wore gas masks and chanted slogans such as “no justice, no peace” while one protester declared the gathering was “peaceful” through a megaphone.
The demonstration began as a memorial event but quickly devolved into disorder as agitators clashed with officers assigned to secure the federal building. Authorities responded by clearing the area and making arrests to restore order. The Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, whose presence was central to the protest, condemned the violence and noted that some actions by the crowd hindered law enforcement efforts.
Images from the scene showed law enforcement vehicles being targeted with thrown objects as officers attempted to maintain control. The Department of Homeland Security emphasized the importance of protecting federal property and personnel during such events and reiterated its commitment to lawful enforcement operations.
The incident follows heightened tensions in Minneapolis after the fatal shootings of Good and Pretti, which have sparked ongoing protests and calls for accountability. The Department of Justice is reportedly reviewing the circumstances surrounding the shootings, while local and federal agencies continue to monitor public safety amid demonstrations.
Saturday’s protest underscores the broader national debate over immigration enforcement policies and the role of ICE, which has faced criticism from activists and community groups. Demonstrations across the country have varied in tone and scale, but clashes like the one in Minneapolis highlight the challenges law enforcement faces in balancing security with the right to protest.
Authorities have urged the public to remain peaceful and lawful in expressing dissent, warning that violent behavior will result in arrest and prosecution. The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the events of the day and has pledged transparency in its handling of the arrests and any use of force.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of both the shootings and the protest, officials emphasize the need for dialogue and lawful engagement to address concerns related to immigration enforcement and public safety.
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