DOJ Probes Minnesota Governor, Minneapolis Mayor Over ICE Enforcement Actions

The United States Department of Justice has launched an investigation into whether Tim Walz, Governor of Minnesota, and Jacob Frey interfered with federal immigration enforcement during an aggressive Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation that has sparked widespread protests and political backlash.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the DOJ is examining public statements made by the two leaders to determine whether they violated a federal conspiracy statute by potentially impeding immigration enforcement. The probe was first reported by CBS News. As of now, neither official has received a formal notice of investigation, according to statements from their offices.

Political Response to DOJ Scrutiny

Reacting to reports of the investigation, Governor Walz criticised the move, calling it an example of the justice system being used to target political opponents. He compared the situation to recent scrutiny faced by other political and institutional figures, warning that such actions pose a threat to democratic norms. His office said it had not been officially informed of any probe.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment, even as the controversy intensified amid ongoing immigration-related tensions in the region.

Massive ICE Crackdown Triggers Protests

The investigation comes during a weekslong immigration enforcement drive in Minneapolis and St. Paul, described by the Department of Homeland Security as its largest operation in the area to date. According to federal officials, more than 2,500 arrests have been made as part of the crackdown.

Tensions escalated further after the fatal shooting of Renee Good on January 7, following which authorities urged protesters to remain peaceful. Demonstrations against ICE actions have continued across the Twin Cities, drawing national attention and sharp political reactions.

Detention Controversies Add Fuel

One case that has drawn particular attention is that of Garrison Gibson, a Liberian-born man who was detained, released, re-arrested, and released again within a short span. A US district judge ruled his initial arrest unlawful due to procedural violations, stating that authorities failed to provide adequate notice before revoking his supervision status.

Despite being in the country legally under an order of supervision and complying with regular check-ins, Gibson was detained again during a routine visit to an immigration office. His attorney later said ICE acknowledged an internal error, leading to his release hours later.

Warnings Ahead of Further Protests

State officials have warned demonstrators against confrontation, stressing that while peaceful protests are protected, violence and property damage will not be tolerated. Minnesota Department of Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson issued the warning ahead of anticipated weekend demonstrations.

The political climate remains charged after Donald Trump said he had considered invoking the Insurrection Act to deploy troops but later indicated there was no immediate need to do so.

Concerns Among Native American and Minority Communities

Meanwhile, tribal leaders and Native American rights groups have advised members to carry tribal identification at all times amid reports of ICE officers stopping or detaining Native Americans. Similar concerns have emerged within immigrant and minority communities, including the Hmong population in Minnesota, with reports of door-to-door questioning by immigration agents.

Community organisations in Minneapolis have set up assistance booths to help residents obtain proper identification, while Democratic lawmakers have held meetings to hear complaints of aggressive enforcement tactics.

As the DOJ probe continues, the situation underscores growing national debate over immigration enforcement, state-federal relations, and the political ramifications of large-scale crackdowns. The outcome of the investigation could have significant implications for both immigration policy and political accountability in the United States.