Federal Judge Blocks ICE From Detaining or Gassing Peaceful Protesters During Minneapolis Immigration Actions

 

A federal judge has issued a major ruling limiting the actions of federal immigration authorities during enforcement operations in Minneapolis, ordering them not to detain or use tear gas against peaceful protesters.

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The decision comes after civil rights groups and community organizers raised concerns over aggressive tactics used during recent immigration operations in the city. Protesters alleged that federal agents unlawfully detained demonstrators and deployed crowd-control measures despite the absence of violence.

In the ruling, the judge emphasized that peaceful protest is a constitutionally protected right, even during active federal operations. The court stated that law enforcement agencies must distinguish between lawful demonstrations and criminal activity, and cannot treat nonviolent protesters as enforcement targets.

The order specifically restricts federal agents from:

• Detaining individuals solely for participating in peaceful protests

• Deploying tear gas or similar chemical agents against non-violent demonstrators

• Interfering with lawful assemblies without clear legal justification

Legal experts say the ruling reinforces First Amendment protections at a time when immigration enforcement actions have increased nationwide. Advocacy groups welcomed the decision, calling it a critical step toward preventing abuse of power and restoring public trust.

“This ruling sends a clear message that constitutional rights do not disappear during federal operations,” said one local civil rights attorney familiar with the case.

Federal officials have not yet announced whether they plan to appeal the decision. Meanwhile, organizers in Minneapolis say they will continue to monitor enforcement activity and document any potential violations of the court’s order.

The ruling may have broader implications beyond Minnesota, as similar immigration-related protests have taken place across the United States. Analysts suggest the decision could influence how federal agencies handle demonstrations during future enforcement actions.